Spanish government calls for 'toy strike' to combat sexism

Spain's left-wing government on Thursday launched an initiative to combat sexist toys for children.

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Alberto Garzon (Unidas Podemos) called on parents and children to protest on Sunday against toys that reinforce gender stereotypes. The event is to take place in Madrid's Retiro Park.

"Dolls for girls and action games for boys? Most toy advertising reproduces stereotypes that limit personal development in childhood and consolidate gender inequality," Minister Alberto Garzon wrote on Twitter.

The politician, already known for banning confectionery advertising aimed at children and calling on Spaniards to eat less meat, said that the toy initiative was the first of its kind in the country.

In a video published by his ministry, animated toy figures are seen calling for a "strike" to "eliminate sexism and gender roles." In the video, two dolls - one female and one male - give speeches and complain that the toys are "pigeonholed" and claim their right to play "with 100% of boys and girls." At the end, they cry out for "equality".

To launch the initiative, posters were put up in the cities of Madrid, Barcelona and Seville on Thursday.