Madrid hosted a commemorative event dedicated to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The spotlight was on Nevenka Fernández—the woman whose story shocked the entire country twenty-five years ago. She was the first to win a court conviction against a politician for sexual harassment, and today, she returned to the public eye, addressing both lawmakers and the public.
In 2001, Nevenka, who held a position in the city council of Ponferrada, publicly accused then-mayor Ismael Álvarez of harassment. Her statement sent shockwaves through Spanish society, which was not accustomed to such public accusations, especially against high-ranking officials. Although the court found the politician guilty and he resigned, Fernández herself faced a wave of public condemnation and was forced to leave the country.
This time, Nevenka joined the event remotely from Ireland, where she has lived for many years. Her account of her ordeal and the changes in public response over the years became one of the meeting’s main highlights. She emphasized that women used to have to fight not only their aggressors but also the social prejudice that often blamed the victims.
A Turning Point for Spain
The events surrounding the Nevenka case marked a turning point for change in Spanish society. Her actions inspired many women to break the silence about violence and harassment. Over the years, attitudes towards such cases have shifted, and the issue of women’s rights protection has become a prominent topic on the public agenda.
The event in Congress was chaired by Francina Armengol, with judges and journalists specializing in gender-based violence participating in the discussion. During the meeting, the names of women killed by aggressors in 2025 were read out, and candles were lit on the parliament steps in memory of each victim.
Special attention was paid to how laws and public opinion have changed over the past quarter century. Whereas in the past such stories were kept quiet, today they are openly discussed at the highest level. However, not all political parties support this consensus: Vox once again refused to take part, drawing criticism from other lawmakers.
Personal experience and public resonance
The story of Nevenka Fernández has repeatedly inspired both documentaries and feature films. In 2021, a film was released about her, and three years later, director Icíar Bollaín presented the film “Soy Nevenka.” Recently, Fernández herself published a book detailing her journey and how she managed to overcome fear and loneliness.
Her speech in Congress served as a reminder that change is possible when we have the courage to speak the truth. She pointed out that, over the years, Spain has seen greater support for victims of violence, and society has become more attentive to their stories. However, the journey towards fully eradicating prejudice and stereotypes is not yet complete.
Many participants at the event emphasized that Nevenka’s example inspires women not only in Spain, but beyond its borders. Her story has become a symbol of the fight for justice and dignity, as well as a reminder of the need to continue protecting women’s rights.
Remembrance and hope for the future
The event concluded with a symbolic ceremony: candles were lit on the steps of Congress in memory of the victims of violence. This act was not only a tribute to those who lost their lives, but also a call to further action. Participants expressed hope that such tragedies will never happen again, and that society will continue moving toward equality and justice.
The story of Nevenka Fernández once again reminded Spaniards of the importance of combating violence and supporting those who face injustice. Her voice resonated as a symbol of the change made possible by the courage and determination of a single woman.
