Raquel Marín, a PSPV-PSOE deputy in the Provincial Assembly of Alicante, spoke out against what she described as a strategic move by the People’s Party. She argued that the party is adopting positions from Vox’s far-right agenda and suggested that the timing of a local police course ahead of the elections aligns with a political price set by the far right. The deputy stressed that it is important to distinguish language. What some label as domestic violence is often framed in policy and public discourse as gender-based or sexist violence, a distinction she believes deserves clear public recognition. She urged supporters to remember the victims and to recognize the depth of the problem and the denial that can accompany it. Marín warned that ignoring gender-based violence makes communities less safe and less just for women.
Marín reiterated her concern that the political rhetoric surrounding violence against women should be treated with seriousness and accuracy. She emphasized that the fight against gender violence is a persistent priority, not a secondary issue. The deputy noted that language matters in policy making, and that precise terminology helps in crafting effective responses, prevention strategies, and support services for survivors. The stance is part of a broader call for accountability among elected officials who shape public safety and social policy.
PP and PSPV clashed over budget delays and paralysis of activity in Alicante Provincial Council
The remarks from the Socialist member followed the news that the Alicante Provincial Council has a program described as training on how to act for the local police in cases of violence against women, with the curriculum explicitly referencing gender and domestic violence. This backdrop has become a flashpoint in the ongoing budget debate, elevating concerns about the council’s efficiency and its ability to move forward with key initiatives. The discussion highlights how policy design and funding decisions can influence the scope and pace of public services in the region.
Marín provided figures to underscore the gravity of gender-based violence in Spain. She cited that during 2023, fifty-five women lost their lives to gender-based violence, a total that marks an increase of six deaths compared with the previous year. She pointed to a balance sheet from the Department for Equality indicating that in many of these cases no prior complaint was filed and no request for protection from the victim had been made. The deputy asserted that these numbers illustrate a systemic issue that requires robust political resolve. She affirmed that socialists will persist in advocating for victims and confronting the issue head-on, even when some voices seek to downplay or dismiss the problem.