Introducing restrictions on protests near medical facilities where abortions are performed could fundamentally reshape daily life in many Spanish cities. Authorities are considering the creation of special safety zones around such clinics, aiming to ensure that women can access medical care without intimidation or fear. This initiative is a response to ongoing cases of harassment and attempts to prevent women from exercising their right to terminate a pregnancy.
The Ministry of Equality (Ministerio de Igualdad) has proposed establishing a 200-meter perimeter within which any anti-abortion demonstrations would be forbidden. The ban would cover not only rallies but any form of presence, including group prayers, picketing, and even solitary protests. Officials believe these measures are essential to stop the psychological pressure and threats women face on the way to clinics.
Law and new proposals
Although a law passed in Spain in 2022 made harassment of women near clinics a criminal offense, the problem has not gone away. Protests and acts of intimidation continue, with some organizations finding ways to circumvent existing restrictions. In Madrid, for instance, several offices of anti-abortion groups have opened near the well-known Dator clinic. They are located just outside the established safety zones, allowing them to continue their activities.
In response, the government has decided to strengthen protections for women and expand the zone where any anti-abortion actions are prohibited. At the same time, there is ongoing discussion about enshrining the right to abortion in the country’s Constitution to make it indisputable and guarantee access to the procedure in public hospitals. Minister of Equality Ana Redondo emphasized that the state must ensure women can make decisions without external pressure or threats.
Debates and court rulings
Parliament continues to see heated debates regarding the new measures. Some lawmakers are calling for tougher penalties for those who try to interfere with women’s access to medical care. At the same time, not all courts support charges against activists. Recently, in Vitoria, a court acquitted 21 people accused of pressuring and intimidating women near a clinic. This case sparked a wave of debate about how effective the current laws are and whether additional measures are needed.
The Sumar party has proposed amending the Criminal Code to explicitly ban any form of protest within a 200-meter radius of clinics. The draft law specifically states that not only rallies, but any collective actions aimed at blocking access to medical services would be prohibited. This is intended to close loopholes for organizations that have so far found ways to circumvent existing restrictions.
Context and consequences
The introduction of new regulations could affect the operations of dozens of clinics across the country. For many women, this will provide reassurance and safety when seeking medical care. At the same time, opponents of abortion fear their right to express their views will be restricted. Authorities insist that protecting the health and freedom of choice of every woman remains a priority.
In recent years, Spain has repeatedly taken measures to protect women from harassment near medical facilities. In 2022, a law was passed imposing prison sentences for harassment at clinics, but protests have continued. Similar initiatives are being discussed elsewhere in Europe: for example, France and the United Kingdom have established safety zones around clinics, while Germany and Italy are debating the need for such measures. In Spain, the issue remains highly relevant, and every new decision sparks broad public debate.
