By Admin 
On the completion of 50 years of the death of dictator Francisco Franco in Spain, women demonstrated in such a way that attracted the attention of the world. Many women took to the streets topless, carrying placards with messages in their hands and slogans painted on their bodies, but why such a protest? What was the reason that forced women to react so strongly even after half a century? The whole story is very interesting. Let’s find out.
women’s demonstration
In Spain, the name of dictator Francisco Franco is still considered a symbol of an era that deeply hurt democracy, expression and women’s rights. On the 50th anniversary of his death, while supporters were paying tribute to him by calling him the protector of the country, women’s rights groups made the day a symbol of protest. In the capital Madrid and many other cities, women demonstrated topless, which quickly became a topic of discussion on social media. Women write slogans like legal fascism and national shame on their bodies.
Why did such a demonstration happen?
Women say that under Franco’s regime, women were considered to have a responsibility limited to just one household. They did not have the freedom to do jobs, engage in political activities and even take decisions related to their lives. During Franco’s reign (1939–1975), laws related to women were extremely harsh, such as ban on married women from working without husband’s permission, legal ban on divorce, abortion and contraceptives, domestic violence not recognized as a crime, women’s rights activists faced jail and torture, etc.
Memories of these pressures are still present in the social structure of Spain. The protesting women say they consider Franco’s legacy a dark chapter of women’s oppression.
Why protest by going topless?
Almost every year on the death anniversary of Francisco Franco, women demonstrate topless. She believes that the Franco regime tried to control women’s bodies, their clothing and their rights. Under the same symbolism, today she turns her body into a weapon of freedom and takes to the streets.
Why is there discussion even after 50 years?
It has been half a century since Franco’s rule ended, but its shadow is still visible in Spain’s politics and society. Statues of Franco have been removed in many places. There is conflict between his supporters and opponents.
Status of women in today’s Spain
Spain is today counted among the most conscious countries in Europe. There is a strong law for women’s rights there. There is strict action against domestic violence, and progressive policies on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Still, the women say it is important to understand Franco’s legacy so that history does not repeat itself.
Also read: United Nations Report: How long does it take for a girl to be murdered in the world, how much involvement does close ones or partners have in this?