EXPLAINER: What is the ‘Only yes is yes’ law and why was it needed?

THE introduction of the ‘Only yes is yes’ law in Spain has received significant negative publicity after it led to the reduction in the sentences of many of those convicted of sex crimes.

Although Spain signed up to the Istanbul Convention agreed in 2012 by the 34 member states of the European Union, significant opposition in the House of Deputies meant that concessions were made in trying to get an agreement on changes to existing laws.

But it also meant revising existing laws to meet the wording of the convention, which recognised the need to protect wom­ en from violence, to end discrimination and to ensure equal rights. In terms of Article 1 of the convention Spain is required to:

1. Protect women against all forms of violence.

2. Contribute to the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women and promote substantive equality between women and men.

3. Implement policies and measures for the protection of and assistance for all victims of women affected by violence.

4. Promote international cooperation with a view to eliminating violence against women and domestic violence.