It started out with a kiss, how did it end up like this? The Spanish sexism row.
Aug 29, 2023
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Spanish lawyer Miriam Gonzalez Durantez and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan discuss the Spanish sexism row and the controversy surrounding the Spanish FA president. They also delve into the ULEZ extension and concerns over air pollution policies in London.
The controversy surrounding Luis Rubiales highlights the ongoing issue of sexism in Spain and the need for equality in all aspects of society.
There is tension within the Labour party between Mayor Sadiq Khan and Keir Starmer regarding the controversial ULEZ extension in London.
Deep dives
Spanish football president faces protests and calls for resignation
Protests have erupted in Spain following the refusal of the head of Spanish football, Luis Rubiales, to resign amidst allegations of misconduct. Rubiales sparked controversy by kissing a Spanish footballer on the lips during a celebratory event. The incident has led to a standoff, with players stating they will not play for the team as long as Rubiales remains in his position. The situation has expanded beyond football and raised concerns about sexism and divisions in Spanish society.
Legal and political consequences for Luis Rubiales
As a result of the controversy, FIFA has suspended Luis Rubiales for 90 days and launched an investigation into his behavior. Spanish police are also investigating him for alleged sexual assault. Despite the mounting pressure, Rubiales has refused to step down, leading to further political divisions within Spain. Some conservative forces argue that the situation has been blown out of proportion, while more liberal forces condemn his behavior and demonstrate in support of the players' demands.
Miriam Gonzales Durantes discusses sexism in Spain and other countries
In light of the controversy surrounding Luis Rubiales, Miriam Gonzales Durantes, a lawyer and founder of a charity inspiring girls, discusses sexism in Spain and other countries. She highlights that sexism manifests itself in different ways and areas, depending on the country. Durantes shares her experiences in Silicon Valley, where women often feel marginalized and their voices go unheard. She also emphasizes the need for equality at home, as it permeates all aspects of society.
Summary of the controversy around London's Ultra Low Emission Zone
The controversy surrounding London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is also discussed. While there have been protests against the ULEZ expansion, which imposes charges on heavily polluting cars, Mayor Sadiq Khan remains committed to tackling air pollution. He argues that the majority of Londoners support the ULEZ as a measure to improve air quality. However, there is tension between Khan and Labour Leader Keir Starmer, as the party has called for a rethink of the ULEZ expansion due to concerns about its impact on car owners in outer London boroughs.
A tumultuous week in Spain continues as Luis Rubiales, the Head of the Spanish FA, refuses to resign after kissing footballer Jenni Hermoso on the lips in the aftermath of Spain's World Cup win. His mother is on day 2 of a hunger strike, locking herself inside a church. You couldn't write it.
So Lewis and Jon discuss the wider repercussions of this sexism row with Spanish lawyer Miriam Gonzalez Durantez.
They also speak with Mayor of London Sadiq Khan about his controversial ULEZ extension, and whether it threatens to create divisions within the Labour party between Khan and Keir Starmer.
Editor: Tom Hughes
Senior Producer: Gabriel Radus
Planning Producer: Alex Barnett
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Producer: Will Gibson-Smith
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The News Agents is a Global Player Original and a Persephonica Production.
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