Spain to Tighten Rules for Those Convicted of Abuse Near Children

In Spain, the government advances a draft reform to the LOPIVI law, strengthening protections for children against violence. Paloma Delgado, a doctor and victim of vicarious violence, has campaigned for years to close legal gaps allowing convicted abusers access to jobs involving minors. The proposed changes will increase requirements for working with children, especially in early childhood settings, and expand checks to include convictions for domestic violence—not just sexual offenses.

Delgado’s advocacy began after learning a teacher at a Zaragoza school had been convicted of abusing his ex-wife and children, receiving a sentence later reduced to a fine. This case, alongside others, revealed a loophole where individuals with violence convictions could still work with vulnerable children. She and lawyer Altamira Gonzalo pushed for legal reforms, questioning how society could trust a child’s teacher with a history of abuse.

While the reform addresses immediate concerns, questions remain about fully assessing and addressing the long-term psychological impact on children of abuse, and further legal changes are needed to comprehensively address the issue. The draft law still requires parliamentary approval, but the ongoing discussion reflects a growing recognition that protecting children requires more than just legal frameworks.