Spanish Minister of Equality Proposes Measures to Combat Gender Discrimination
The Spanish Minister of Equality, Ana Redondo, announced her intention to present a series of measures aimed at combating gender discrimination to the Cabinet in September. Among these measures is a preliminary bill to abolish prostitution.
According to the news agency EFE, this initiative is part of the Spanish government’s effort to promote gender equality and combat the exploitation of women. Redondo emphasized the aim of achieving "higher democratic and feminist quality" during a press conference.
This announcement follows previous legislative attempts that failed to accomplish this goal, prompting the government to pursue a new strategy with the preliminary bill.
Current Situation of Prostitution in Spain
Prostitution in Spain is not directly regulated by law. The decriminalization of sex work occurred in 1995, contributing to a sector estimated to be worth €3.7 billion annually, according to media reports.
Estimates from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) in 2016 indicated that approximately 70,268 individuals were involved in prostitution in Spain, with other estimates reaching up to 300,000, predominantly women and many of whom are migrants.
However, activities such as pimping or brokering between sex workers and clients are illegal, reflecting a contradiction in existing policies that allow voluntary prostitution while criminalizing exploitation.
Rationale Behind the New Legislation
The push to abolish prostitution combines social and political motivations. Redondo referenced a report from the Anti-Corruption Unit (UCO) regarding the case of José Luis Abalos as a "mirror" revealing the urgent need for decisive action.
The report underscored the necessity of strong measures to address the issue, with Redondo stating that it is time to move "with all strength" on this matter. Proponents of the legislation argue that prostitution represents a form of violence against women and perpetuates poverty. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described it as such in his 2019 electoral statement. Reports indicate that over 80% of sex workers may be victims of mafia or human trafficking networks, reinforcing the case for abolition.
Challenges Facing Proposed Legislation
Despite the government’s intentions, the proposed bill faces significant challenges. There is a division in public and political opinion regarding the abolition of prostitution. In 2022, protests occurred in Spain from brothel owners and some workers against a similar draft law, arguing it would force them underground, increasing risks of violence and sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. Susana Pastor, head of the "Anti-Abolition Platform," stated that the legislation would "condemn sex workers to operate underground," worsening their conditions.
Additionally, some argue that prostitution serves as a livelihood for many women, particularly migrants and single mothers, who rely on it to cover living expenses. Reports noted that the pandemic had driven many women in Spain into this sector due to poverty and job losses, with service prices dropping to €15 in some areas. This situation raises questions about how to provide economic alternatives for these women if prostitution were to be abolished.
Diverging Perspectives
Prostitution remains a contentious issue in Spain. Advocates for abolition view it as exploitation and commodification of women, arguing that a ban would protect victims and promote equality. Conversely, some defend the regulation and legalization of prostitution, suggesting that it would offer better protection to workers, as seen in countries like the Netherlands and Germany. Concerns exist that prohibition might lead to increased illegal work, exposing workers to greater risks.
