Spain Revokes Honors from Controversial Psychiatrist Linked to Francoism

The Spanish Government has decided to revoke the Grand Cross of the Civil Order of Health awarded to the psychiatrist Antonio Vallejo-Nájera, a controversial figure associated with the Francoist regime. This announcement was made by President Pedro Sánchez on social media platform X, indicating that the decision will be formalized in an upcoming Council of Ministers meeting. In his message, Sánchez emphasized the importance of upholding democratic values, stating, "No democracy can honor someone who disguised their theories as science to justify hate repression and inequality." Vallejo-Nájera, who lived from 1889 to 1960, was known for promoting divisive eugenic theories that were used to rationalize the oppressive practices of the Francoist government. Minister of Health, Mónica García, supported the government's decision, recalling how Vallejo-Nájera's work was pivotal in legitimizing the repression under Franco. She criticized his use of psychiatry, saying it damaged the dignity of individuals, categorizing those with differing views as inferior or mentally ill. García further noted that his pseudoscientific arguments provided the ideological foundation for severe atrocities committed during the Franco era, including the systematic removal of thousands of children from Republican families, aimed at their political and moral reeducation. The Grand Civil Order of Health itself is the highest civil honor in Spain for contributions to health care, public health, and health research. It can be awarded to individuals, organizations, and institutions that have made significant impacts in these areas. This move comes in the wake of a growing recognition of historical injustices and the need to confront the legacy of Francoism. It parallels other historical instances where state-sponsored actions, particularly targeting vulnerable populations, have been forcibly conducted. An example of this is the forced sterilization of indigenous women in Peru under President Alberto Fujimori's government two decades ago, showcasing a grim aspect of how ideologies can manifest into devastating policies. As Spain continues to grapple with its past, the revocation of the honor from Vallejo-Nájera marks a critical step toward acknowledging and rectifying historical wrongs, ensuring that such ideologies are firmly rooted against rather than celebrated. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2