The plenary session of the Lower House of Parliament approves the reform of Article 49 of the Constitution, the first with a social content since its entry into force

Extraordinary plenary session of the Lower House of Parliament held in the Upper House of Parliament (Pool Moncloa / Raúl Salgado)

This amendment is the third since the entry into force of the Constitution, but the first with a social content. The new text is adapted in language and content to current realities and international terminology.

Thus, the new wording of Article 49 recognises that persons with disabilities exercise the rights provided for in Title I in conditions of real and effective freedom and equality. It also establishes that the public authorities shall promote policies that guarantee the full personal autonomy and social inclusion of persons with disabilities, in universally accessible environments, and shall encourage the participation of their organisations, under the terms established by law. Finally, particular attention will be paid to the specific needs of women and children with disabilities.

The Minister for the Presidency, Justice and Parliamentary Relations, Félix Bolaños, attended the plenary session, in which the President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, stressed that the reform "settles a moral debt with persons with disabilities" and reminded the audience that "the transcendent aspect of politics is the effect it has on people's daily lives".

The proposal was approved by 312 votes in favour and 32 against, and has been sent to the Upper House of Parliament for final approval.

Non official translation