The Citizen-Victim: Expansion, Opening and Regulation Laws on Vulnerable Lives (Spain, 21st Century)

Abstract

Recently, Spain has enacted legislation that addresses victims of different kinds. From victims of ETA terrorist acts to others of varying origins, these laws addressed an ever broadening range of vulnerabilities for the average everyday individual. In this article, we are interested in discussing the emergence and increase of this kind of legislation, as a trend that promotes the construction of a new subjective type: the victim. Victims in contemporary societies seem to be gaining ground as central figures simultaneously, integrating themselves alongside the average citizen. We will analyze the broadening aspects of the Victims using three distinct stages: first focusing on their political nature, showing a breaking point with the monopoly of ETA victims in public perception, which led to progressive legislative awareness and concern of other kinds of victims. This became a ongoing political trigger. Secondly, broadening the definition of Victim brought it closer to situations, directly connected to “vulnerable citizens”. Lastly, addressing the category itself through a new expression of “citizen-victim”.