Work

The Trope of Romani Criminality in Spain's Gender Violence Institutions: A Critique of Punitive Feminism

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: While Spain has been drawing worldwide attention for its feminist mobilizations in the past years, the movement is currently tearing itself apart on whether a punitive response to gender violence aligns with its values. Based on qualitative research in Madrid's gender violence institutions, I discuss the primacy given to prosecution in the implementation of Spain's internationally acclaimed "gender violence law" and how it interacts with the racist trope of "Romani criminality" in practitioners' discourses. I show that it manifests in the popular culture myth of Romani men hurting women; strong suspicions towards Romani women summoned at court; and a rejection of Romani resolution process mechanisms. I conclude that Romani women's alternative means of finding safety deserve better consideration for their transformative justice potential.

Source: Violence Against Women

DOI: 10.1177/10778012251379437

Author: Sarah Werner Boada

Institution: University of Warwick

Language: English

Topic: Romani and Gypsy Studies

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650