A new round of debate is unfolding in Spain over the effectiveness of electronic monitoring bracelets designed to track individuals convicted of domestic violence. The Ministry of Equality has announced an internal review after technical malfunctions were reported with the devices. The agency does not rule out that, following the investigation, serious claims may be brought against the contractor responsible for maintaining the system.
The head of the ministry, Ana Redondo, issued a statement expressing regret to the affected women. She stressed that any system failures only heighten anxiety and uncertainty among those who already face daily threats. In response to the incidents, a special plan was launched for continuous monitoring of the situation, ensuring that any potential problems are addressed as quickly and effectively as possible. Authorities also intend to identify weaknesses in the system and provide victims with the highest level of protection.
As part of this plan, meetings have already taken place between representatives of major companies involved in the project and government bodies responsible for combating gender-based violence. Particular attention is being paid to ensuring that all discussions and decisions are held in complete confidentiality, so as not to expose women to additional risk. The Ministry emphasizes that transparency in operations must not compromise the safety of victims.
Among the new measures already being implemented are daily coordination with the operations center, regular system performance reports, and the establishment of special commissions to analyze the situation. In addition, staff working with the bracelets receive extra training, and during periods of increased risk, such as in summer or on holidays, the service is reinforced.
Device upgrades are also planned in the near future: options for individual language settings will be added, a separate module for filing complaints will be introduced, and the team of specialists working with the system will be expanded to include psychologists, lawyers, and other experts.
The Ministry also denied rumors that there were murders of women under the protection of electronic bracelets in 2024. The agency believes that spreading false information only hinders an objective assessment of the situation and can harm victims. Authorities insist that they continue to act responsibly and do not intend to cover up problems, but will also not allow the distortion of the real picture.
