Spain - February 2023

Spanish Parliament approved two laws expanding abortion, reproductive and transgender rights. The new legislation (Ley Orgánica 2/2010) eases procedures to access abortion for 16- and 17-years old girls in public hospitals and allows for the free supply of menstrual products in schools and prisons. It also makes Spain the first country in Europe to establish paid menstrual leave for women suffering from incapacitating menstruation symptoms. The new legislation (Ley 4/2023) facilitates the practice of changing the gender on national identity cards, and permits minors aged 14 and 15 to apply for gender changes with their parents’ or legal guardians’ consent. It also bans conversion therapy and defines measures for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the workforce, education, and housing. The Special Procedures of the Human Rights Council endorsed the new legislation in Spain.

Sources: Politico, Deutsche Welle, Euronews, UN OHCHR, Buletín Oficial del Estado (1), Buletín Oficial del Estado (2)