Massive Demonstrations Against Gender Violence in the Canary Islands
On Tuesday, thousands of passionate individuals gathered in the capitals of the Canary Islands, uniting to express their profound discontent regarding the government’s inadequate response to the escalating crisis of gender-based violence. This significant turnout underscores the urgent need for action and accountability in addressing this pervasive issue.
Widespread Discontent with Government Response
In Las Palmas, the Feminist Network of Gran Canaria articulated their strong disapproval of the current administration, accusing it of engaging in what they termed “institutional posturing.” They criticized the government for implementing budget cuts that have severely impacted vital equality initiatives. In a manifesto released in conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the network emphasized that this day has regrettably become a platform for superficial gestures, such as photo opportunities, rather than a catalyst for meaningful change. They condemned the government’s actions as dismantling essential frameworks that support equality policies, leaving vulnerable populations without the necessary protections.
Alarming Gaps in Victim Protection
The Feminist Network raised urgent concerns regarding the inadequate protection afforded to victims of gender violence, attributing this alarming situation to the weakening of the Canary Institute for Equality and the Vice Ministry for Equality. They criticized the leadership of these institutions, asserting that they are headed by individuals who lack the requisite experience and training to effectively address these critical issues. This lack of expertise raises serious questions about the commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of victims.
Demand for Comprehensive Policies and Resources
Moreover, the group highlighted the pressing shortage of equality professionals within educational settings, pointing out that equality committees are not only under-resourced but also lack the necessary attention to function effectively. They called for substantial public policies and resources that extend far beyond mere symbolic actions. The network emphasized that cutting equality budgets and neglecting to implement comprehensive policies only serve to perpetuate institutional violence against women, further endangering those who are already vulnerable.
Statistics Illustrating the Severity of the Crisis
Recent data from the Gran Canaria Feminist Network paints a stark picture of the ongoing crisis. Nearly 3,000 women reported incidents of gender-based violence in just the second quarter of the year. Additionally, since June, approximately 400 cases of sexual assault have been processed by newly established 24-hour crisis centers. The network also referenced the troubling ’18 Lovas’ and ‘Operation Incubo’ cases, which involve the sexual exploitation of minors who are under state protection. These cases highlight a significant failure by the institutions responsible for ensuring their safety and well-being.
Urgent Calls for Accountability in the Justice System
The group underscored the critical importance of conducting thorough investigations into these cases, warning that any failure to identify and prosecute perpetrators would constitute a grave judicial failure. They urged the justice system, as well as the 14 municipalities in the Canary Islands that are not participating in the VioGén gender violence victim protection scheme, to take their responsibilities seriously. Ensuring the safety of women must be a paramount concern for all levels of government and law enforcement.
Honoring the Lives Lost to Gender Violence
In their powerful manifesto, the Feminist Network took a moment to remember the 38 women who have tragically lost their lives to gender-based violence in Spain in 2025 alone. They reminded the public that since 2003, there have been a staggering 1,333 fatalities, including 65 minors. This sobering statistic serves as a poignant reminder of the urgency of the situation and the need for collective action. The network encouraged community members to actively support and report any instances of gender violence they may witness or hear about, emphasizing that awareness and vigilance are crucial in combating this epidemic.
Vibrant Demonstration in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, over a thousand individuals participated in a powerful march organized by the Forum against Gender Violence. The march, which moved from Plaza Weyler to Plaza de La Candelaria, commemorated 25 years of the Forum’s tireless activism. Participants rallied under the poignant slogan, “For those who were, for those who are, for those who will come. We will not be silenced, they will not silence us.” The atmosphere was charged with energy as demonstrators chanted various slogans calling for survival and justice. A striking performance featured around 40 photographs of notable men associated with incidents of gender violence, serving as a stark visual reminder of the issue at hand.
Key points
- Thousands protested in the Canary Islands against government inaction on gender-based violence.
- The Feminist Network of Gran Canaria criticized the government for budget cuts affecting equality policies.
- Nearly 3,000 women reported gender-based violence in the second quarter of the year.
- Recent cases highlight failures in protecting minors from sexual exploitation.
- Demonstrators called for accountability from the justice system regarding gender violence cases.
- 38 women have been murdered by gender-based violence in Spain in 2025.
- Over a thousand people participated in a rally in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, marking 25 years of activism.
