The Spanish authorities have decided to take legal action against the Madrid government for its refusal to comply with national legislation. The dispute concerns the creation of a special registry of medical professionals who, for personal reasons, do not wish to participate in abortion procedures. According to the central government, this step is necessary to ensure equal access to healthcare services for women across the country.
On Monday, representatives of Spain’s executive branch instructed state attorneys to prepare an administrative lawsuit for Madrid’s High Court. The move comes after the region’s authorities failed to comply with an order to create a confidential list of conscientious objectors, despite a direct requirement in the law on sexual and reproductive health. Other regions, such as Aragon and the Balearic Islands, have already implemented similar registries.
The situation in Madrid is of particular concern to the central authorities. According to their data, more than 99% of all abortions in the region are performed in private clinics. The government believes this turns a fundamental right for women into a commercial commodity and creates inequality among residents of different autonomous regions. Authorities stress that the absence of such a registry prevents public hospitals from organizing their work so that every woman can exercise her right to medical care within the public health system.
Clash between Madrid and the central government
The Madrid regional government, led by Isabel Díaz Ayuso, continues to maintain its stance despite repeated reminders from the Ministry of Health. Unlike other regions where the legal requirements have been met, the creation of a registry is being ignored in the capital region. According to central authorities, this violates women’s rights and further strengthens the influence of private medical institutions.
In an official statement, the government noted that Madrid’s refusal to comply with the law undermines freedom of choice and creates territorial discrimination. Women living in the capital are forced to turn to private clinics, which is not always convenient or accessible for everyone. Moreover, the state emphasizes that information about medical professionals who refuse to take part in procedures will remain strictly confidential and will not be made public.
Possible consequences of legal proceedings
The start of legal action could set a precedent for other regions that are also reluctant to comply with the law. The central government intends to use every available legal tool to ensure compliance and guarantee equal rights for women across the country. Authorities believe this is the only way to provide access to medical services without unnecessary barriers or discrimination.
The Madrid court will soon review the government’s lawsuit. The outcome of this case could affect not only the situation in the capital region, but also policies in other autonomous communities. The issue of access to abortion and women’s rights is once again in the public eye, and tensions between regional and central authorities are escalating.
