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Spain enacts controversial gender parity law

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The legislation aims to ensure equal representation of both sexes in decision-making bodies in Spain

Spain enacts controversial gender parity law

On Thursday August 22, Spain implemented a bold and controversial measure aimed at revolutionising gender equality in the country. Dubbed the ‘Parity Law’, this legislation has sparked intense debates and divided opinions among government officials and feminist groups alike.

But what exactly is this law, and why is it causing such a stir?

Unpacking the Parity Law

The Parity Law addresses the longstanding issue of unequal representation between men and women in both the political and economic spheres in Spain. It introduces several mechanisms to promote gender parity and ensure that women have an equal voice in decision-making processes.

One of the law's key components is the introduction of "zipper lists" for all elections held in the country. This means that political parties must now alternate male and female candidates on their electoral lists, ensuring that women are not relegated to lower, less electable positions.

This measure aims to increase the number of women in influential positions within the Spanish government.

The law also enforces a "principle of balanced representation”, initially mandating a 60-40% gender split in public administration bodies and public-private sector companies.

Although municipalities and towns with 3,000 or fewer inhabitants will be excluded from this rule, they will still be required to "have persons of each sex not exceed 60% nor be less than 40%, in each candidacy."

However, a subsequent amendment has tipped the scales even further in favour of women. While there is still a 60% cap on male representation, there is now no limit for women, allowing them to potentially reach 100% representation in entities like the Spanish Government, listed companies and even the Constitutional Court and the General Council of the Judiciary.

The Parity Law's reach extends beyond politics. In the realm of science and research, it introduces "corrective mechanisms" to ensure that women are not penalised for taking time off to care for children.

This amendment aims to address the longstanding issue of gender discrimination in evaluation processes.

Additionally, the law amends sports regulations, mandating professional federations and leagues to implement protocols for preventing sexual harassment and recognising it as a very serious offense.

It also improves maternity protection for elite female athletes, including contract extensions during pregnancy or adoption processes.

Why is the law so controversial?

Supporters of the Parity Law argue that it is a much-needed corrective measure to address historical gender inequality in leadership positions. This law, they believe, could serve as a model for other countries striving for gender equality.

However, critics argue that the law imposes unnecessary quotas and forced diversity, potentially leading to the selection of individuals based on gender rather than merit. They question whether this law could inadvertently cause a backlash, hindering progress towards true equality.

One major oversight

One notable omission was the failure to include individuals who took advantage of the recently introduced five-day leave for caring for family members or cohabitants.

This was due to the government inadvertently basing the law on an outdated version of the Workers' Statute. The Minister of Equality has assured that this oversight will be rectified when Congress resumes in September.

The law will be implemented gradually, with Ibex companies given until June 30, 2026 to adapt, while smaller listed companies and unions have until 2027 and 2028, respectively.

In other news: VIDEO: Plumes of smoke from Canada wildfire visible across Spain

Image: Freepik

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