The path to secularism in Spain and its impact on women’s rights

Partiendo del hecho de que el Estado laico es el que garantiza la igualdad y la libertad en un Estado democrático, en esta investigación se analiza cuál ha sido el recorrido que ha llevado a la configuración constitucional de la laicidad en España, las diferentes interpretaciones y su relación con la libertad de creencias y la igualdad. Seguidamente se estudia la relación entre laicidad y feminismo, para, desde este marco jurídico, plantear propuestas de reforma a fin de que se consoliden y garanticen la laicidad, la igualdad y los derechos, con particular atención a los derechos de las mujeres.Taking as a starting point the idea that it is secularism which guarantees equality and freedom in a democratic state, this article discusses the route by which secularism has arrived at its current constitutional form in Spain as well as the various interpretations that it has received, particularly in relation to freedom of belief and equality. The discussion next turns to the relationship between laicism and feminism, and, then, from this juridical frame, proposals of reform are put forward which are intended to consolidate and guarantee secularism, equality and human rights, with particular attention to women’s rights