Outrage over forced sterilisation proposal for drug addicts and homeless in Spain

A forced sterilisation proposal reignites the ethical and social debate
The proposal to sterilise drug addicts and homeless people has triggered a wave of rejection on social media and discussion forums. The initiative, attributed to a political figure from the Spanish plateau region, has been labelled eugenic and contrary to human rights. While some defend the measure as a drastic solution to drug addiction and homelessness, others compare it to totalitarian practices.
Historical background: Salvador Allende's thesis
The debate has revived Salvador Allende's doctoral thesis, in which nearly a century ago he proposed the sterilisation of the mentally ill and alcoholics. Although the context was different, the reference has been used both to justify and to criticise the current proposal. The most critical voices point out that any forced sterilisation policy abusa fundamental rights and recalls the racial hygiene policies of the twentieth century.
Reactions and opposing views
Among the harshest comments, the ethical basis of the measure is questioned: "Why not euthanise the poor and the wretched while we're at it?", one participant asked. Others argue that the solution is not sterilisation but rehabilitation and social support. The controversy has exposed the lack of consensus on how to tackle these social problems, with positions ranging from radical control to the defence of the rights of vulnerable groups.
For now, the proposal has not been formally tabled in any institution, but the open debate reveals the tension between social control policies and respect for individual autonomy. With no solid data supporting the effectiveness of sterilisation as a solution, the debate remains open.