Spanish Towns Ban Muslim Festivals In Public Spaces Amid Political Backing.
Several towns in Spain have enacted new regulations prohibiting the celebration of Muslim festivals such as Eid in public spaces. The decision, which has drawn significant controversy, was passed by local governments led by the conservative People’s Party and supported by the far-right Vox party.
Supporters of the measure argue it is aimed at preserving Spain’s Christian heritage. During the announcement, a spokesperson declared, “Spain is and will forever be the land of Christian people.” The statement has been widely criticised by human rights organisations and members of the Muslim community, who see the move as discriminatory and divisive.
The new policy affects public gatherings related to Islamic religious celebrations, particularly Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which traditionally involve communal prayers and festivities in open areas. Local authorities are expected to enforce the ban through city ordinances that restrict the use of public squares and parks for non-Christian religious events.
Opposition leaders and civil society groups have expressed deep concern over the implications of the policy, warning that it could further inflame tensions between religious communities and undermine Spain’s commitment to secular governance and religious freedom.
The Spanish government has yet to release an official national position on the issue, though calls are growing for intervention to ensure that constitutional protections on freedom of worship are upheld. Legal experts are also examining whether the bans violate provisions of Spain’s constitution or European Union human rights law.
Muslim leaders across the country have called for dialogue and peaceful protest, urging the authorities to reverse the ban and respect the multicultural identity of modern Spain.