Spanish church rallies Catholics against “demographic winter” of abortion

On 25 March, Spanish bishops marked International Day for Life by calling for stronger support for “stable families” in Spain.

They warned that the country, like many Western nations, faces a significant demographic decline and urged policies that promote family stability, including better job security, fair wages and affordable housing.

The bishops also decried the country’s high abortion rates, with over 2.5 million voluntary abortions since 1985.

Over 500 pro-life groups gathered in Madrid on 23 March for a “Yes to Life” rally, protesting efforts to constitutionalise abortion rights in Spain.

The rally highlighted the struggles of Spanish families amid the government’s push for progressive laws on abortion and same-sex marriage.

Tensions remain high between the Catholic Church and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government, with church leaders criticizing liberal social policies. Church officials continue to advocate for a culture that values life at all stages.