The Sectoral Conference on Equality, held this week at the Ministry of Equality, served as the platform for local councils to voice their concerns regarding the decreased funding allocated to the Co-Responsibility Plan 2025. The president of the Equality Commission of the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP), who also serves as the mayor of Collado Villalba, led this demand.
During the meeting, attended by representatives from the social services and equality departments of all autonomous communities, various lines of action in equality policies, conciliation, and co-responsibility were addressed. Mechanisms for cooperation between public administrations to promote family programs and improve local services were also discussed.
The municipal representative conveyed to the Commission the apprehension of Spanish local councils regarding the nearly 5.5 million euro cut in state funding for the Co-Responsibility Plan 2025, approved by the Council of Ministers. This reduction represents a significant decrease in resources for municipalities in the Community of Madrid, despite an increase in the number of local councils adhering to the program.
“"It is essential to strengthen institutional coordination between the Government of Spain, the autonomous communities, and local entities to promote effective measures that are close to the real needs of citizens."
Furthermore, the crucial role of local councils as the closest administration to residents was highlighted, being fundamental for developing social policies and initiatives that foster equal opportunities and work-life balance. A greater foresight in fund allocation was requested, with earlier calls for proposals and clear criteria for municipal projects, aiming to ensure program stability and avoid uncertainty in local economic management.
