Survivors of Spain's Catholic rehabilitation centers seek recognition

Name: Survivors of Spains Catholic rehabilitation centers seek recognition
Uploaded: 2025-11-18T16:42:08.283Z
Duration: 5 min 41 s
Description: Survivors of Catholic moral rehabilitation institutes in Spain, where thousands of women and girls endured harsh treatment during Francisco Francos dictatorship and beyond, are seeking recognition and a national apology for their suffering as the country marks the 50th anniversary of the dictators death.

Reuters · 28 days ago

Reuters

28 days ago

Survivors of Catholic moral rehabilitation institutes in Spain, where thousands of women and girls endured harsh treatment during Francisco Franco's dictatorship and beyond, are seeking recognition and a national apology for their suffering as the country marks the 50th anniversary of the dictator's death.

Breakdown

Spain's Catholic rehabilitation centers, active from 1941 to 1985, housed thousands of girls and women accused of violating strict Catholic morals. 59s
Survivors describe extreme religious indoctrination, forced labor, and psychological trauma, with many experiencing self-harm and suicidal thoughts. 1m 38s
The centers were established by Franco's Justice Ministry and overseen by the Board for the Protection of Women, chaired by Franco's wife. 1m 9s
In 2024, the Spanish Confederation of Religious Entities held the first formal ceremony to ask survivors for forgiveness. 4m 17s
Survivors are seeking official recognition and a national apology, but many still struggle with shame and have difficulty accepting forgiveness. 5m 18s