An Analysis of Criticism of the Governmental Initiative
President Sánchez’s proposal to revitalize democracy has generated an intense debate, with critical voices pointing out the internal inconsistencies of this initiative. Josep Martí i Blanch, in a recent article in La Vanguardia, highlighted the contradictions that are already evident in the current legislation and that will be amplified with the new measures.
Freedom of Expression and Religion: A Distorted Paradigm
Martí illustrates the situation with an example that challenges the logic of the new legislation: ‘In Catalonia, it can be said that the best church is the one that burns, but it cannot be said that the values of Islam are incompatible with democracy’. This disparity in the treatment of ideas reveals a clear contradiction in the objectives of democratic regeneration.
Hate Crimes and Their Selective Application
Sánchez’s project includes the abolition of the crime of offending religious sentiments, a measure that contrasts with the rigor with which hate crimes are prosecuted. In the European context, only a few countries do not sanction this type of offence, with France as a notable example. However, reports of hate crimes have increased, with a particular focus on issues such as feminism and sexual diversity.
The Voice of the Episcopal Conference
The president of the Spanish Episcopal Conference has underlined one of the great contradictions of the system, stating that while feelings can be used to justify sex changes, religious feelings are not legally protected. This reflection highlights the inequalities that persist within the Spanish legal system.
Intellectual Cancellation in Universities
Another worrying aspect is the situation in universities, where academics who stray from the woke doctrine face serious consequences. At the University of Barcelona, for example, support for Thomism can lead to professional exclusion, while queer ideas are widely accepted.
Fake News and Disinformation
The law against fake news also illustrates unequal treatment in the legal system. Recently, Echenique, a former Podemos deputy, was prosecuted for a comment that suggested priests were more prone to abuse than immigrants. This claim has been refuted by data showing that allegations against priests are extremely rare.
An Uncertain Future
With the multiple contradictions and the reactions of civil society, Sánchez’s proposal for democratic regeneration is on a difficult path. The question that remains is how these tensions will be managed in the future and whether the government will be able to strike a balance between freedom of expression and the protection of individual rights.