Spain’s government urged women not to be uncomfortable with their beach bodies when they wear bathing costumes - whatever their shape or size. The nation's Equality Ministry has launched the summer campaign encouraging women to reject “stereotypes” and “aesthetical violence” — a reference to social pressure some women feel to conform to beauty ideals.
A poster advertising the campaign features women of different ages, sizes and skin colours in bathing costumes on a beach with the slogan: “Summer belongs to us, too.”
The drive was welcomed by Equality Minister Irene Montero, who said: “Enjoy (the summer) however, wherever and with whoever you like.”
Antonia Morillas, head of the Women’s Institute, a government body, added gender stereotypes are at the root of discrimination based on physical appearance. She said: "Expectations are projected onto women about how they should look.
“That doesn’t only affect our self-esteem, it also takes away our rights and limits how we behave in and whether we enjoy public spaces.”
In supporting the movement, she tweeted praise of the campaign's attempt to knock down gender stereotypes. While the campaign has been widely praised for its attempts at inclusivity, some people have also stressed it should be extended to include men without so-called standard bodies.
Spain’s Socialist-led coalition government, which came to power four years ago, has made women’s rights one of its political banners. Its Cabinet has 14 women and eight men in ministerial positions.
