PSOE Women Demand Feminist Transformation Amidst Internal Harassment Allegations in Spain

Internal Strife Rocks Spain's Socialist Party Over Feminist Demands

A significant internal conflict is unfolding within the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), as women members demand a profound feminist transformation and an end to what they perceive as the protection of aggressors within the party's ranks. This call for change has been particularly amplified by recent allegations of sexual harassment against Francisco Salazar, a prominent ally of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

The allegations against Salazar, which surfaced in July from two party-affiliated employees at the La Moncloa complex, have exposed deep fissures within the PSOE. Despite the party's official stance as a feminist organization, its leadership has been criticized for a slow response to the claims, igniting outrage among activists and rank-and-file members.

Calls for Accountability and Immediate Action

Influential figures within the PSOE have publicly voiced their dissatisfaction with the handling of the Salazar case. Adriana Lastra, a key woman in the party, has stressed that such cases should be treated as a public crime, not a private matter, and has called for the immediate transfer of the case to the prosecutor's office. This demand underscores a broader push for greater accountability and transparency regarding allegations of gender-based violence within the party structure.

The internal discontent persists, with officials emphasizing the independence of the harassment commission investigating the matter. However, the lack of clear decisions and the leadership's silence on next steps have only added to the tension. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, while campaigning, has reportedly chosen not to address the scandal publicly, further fueling criticism.

Broader Context of Feminist Divisions and Policy Debates

The current demands for feminist transformation within the PSOE are set against a backdrop of evolving feminist discourse in Spain. While the PSOE has historically been a primary driver of gender equality policies, the broader Spanish feminist movement itself has experienced divisions.

Recent legislative efforts, such as the 'Solo sí es sí' sexual consent law and gender recognition laws, have sparked debate and highlighted different perspectives within the feminist movement and the governing coalition. A feminist sector within the Socialist party has actively introduced amendments to policies, demonstrating an ongoing internal push for specific feminist agendas.

Impact on Party Reputation and Future Elections

The controversy surrounding the Salazar case and the party's response has significantly damaged the PSOE's reputation and deepened its problems ahead of upcoming elections. Senior party members note that a series of scandals involving former organization secretaries had already undermined public trust, and the Salazar case has become a 'time bomb' for the party. The ongoing internal debate reflects a critical moment for the PSOE as it navigates its commitment to feminist principles amidst real-world challenges and internal allegations.