Controversy over lingerie ads on public transport that degrade women

The Minister of transport for the Canary Islands, Enrique Arriaga, has informed that his department is going to review the content of an underwear campaign, which is shown on public transport in Tenerife after complaints that “affects the objectification of women in advertising and breaches the principles of equality”.

In response to a question from Sí Podemos in parliament, he said that the advertising campaign by the Calzedonia and Intimissimi brands "is not offensive or dishonest", in accordance with national or regional regulations, and is not of a "sexual content".

He has also said that there is no prohibition on campaigns of this nature by the National Equality Observatory and the Canary Institute of Equality.

However, he promised to carry out new consultations with the relevant organisations, and if any aspect is in breach of guidelines, they adverts be withdrawn or a new design will be enforced.

María José Belda, spokesperson for Sí Podemos, has asked the tram operator, Metrotenerife, to coordinate with the advisors from the Department of Equality because this type of advertisement exploits women and deprives them of their dignity.

She said that "an image is sold, not the underwear garments" and has warned that according to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), portraying women as objects is gender violence, and in this specific case it is about selling underwear to please men and comply with stereotypes, while warning of the risks of promoting eating disorders among young women.

We must ensure that there are no such ads like this in the future,” she said.