Victimization and Re-victimization in Hate Crime Cases in Spain: An Intersectional Approach

Abstract

This article analyses the institutional management of hate crimes in Spain from an intersectional perspective, focusing on the emerging problems related to obtaining victim status and avoiding re-victimization. The analysis is based on in-depth interviews with people who have experienced prejudice-based violence, as well as with professionals working in the field of hate crime and victim care. The study finds that Spanish public policies lack a full integration of an intersectional perspective and tend to approach hate crimes through a one-dimensional lens. In this context, difficulties are detected in converting intersectionality from an abstract concept to concrete policies and measures. In addition, multiple challenges are identified in the process of acquiring victim status, which unfolds along two dimensions: self-recognition as a victim and institutional recognition. Through this dual process of victimization, which is crucial for deciding whether to report and for accessing social assistance, intersectional discrimination plays a key role: some individuals do not recognize themselves as victims due to the internalization of symbolic violence, while others are more likely to be criminalized than recognized as victims. Finally, police and judicial authorities often contribute to re-victimization, fostering a climate of mistrust that hinders the reporting of hate crimes