Spanish journalist Isa Balado has become the unfortunate victim of an on-air sexual harassment incident that has ignited public outrage and led to the arrest of the perpetrator. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a recent scandal involving the president of Spain’s football federation, underscoring the pressing issue of harassment and consent.
Isa Balado was in the midst of her reporting duties in the streets of Madrid when an individual approached her from behind and subjected her to inappropriate physical contact. Shockingly, this disturbing incident was captured on video, which subsequently went viral on social media, triggering widespread condemnation from the public.
This incident follows a separate scandal that emerged just a month prior when the president of Spain’s football federation, Luis Rubiales, faced backlash for nonconsensually kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony that followed Spain’s World Cup victory in Sydney on August 20.
The video footage of the incident involving Isa Balado depicted the journalist being approached and assaulted, with the assailant inquiring about her affiliation with a television network. Despite being in the midst of a live broadcast, Isa Balado attempted to continue her reporting. However, the host at the time, Nacho Abad, urged her to confront the harasser, a request to which she appeared understandably hesitant.
Ultimately, Balado faced the individual, asserting that she was merely trying to carry out her professional duties. After being instructed to leave, the individual made a futile attempt to touch her, which she deftly evaded. Later, the harasser approached her again, claiming to have heard her allegations and demanding that she “tell the truth.”
Authorities swiftly took action, announcing the arrest of the individual responsible for sexually assaulting the journalist during the live broadcast. This action sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Mediaset Espana, the parent company of Cuatro, where Isa Balado works, issued a strong statement condemning all forms of harassment and aggression. They expressed unwavering support for Isa Balado and denounced the intolerable situation she endured.
Spain’s Labour Minister, Yolanda Diaz, decried the incident as a product of deeply ingrained machismo culture, highlighting the audacity of the aggressors when confronted on camera.
Equality Minister Irene Montero echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that non-consensual touching constitutes sexual violence and must not go unpunished. She called for an end to impunity in such cases.
Isa Balado’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address and combat harassment in all its forms and underscores the importance of ensuring safe working environments for journalists and individuals alike.
