Pedro Casares, the Government Delegate in Cantabria, has highlighted the National Police's efforts to combat hate crimes that threaten fundamental principles such as equality, freedom, and coexistence. His remarks were made during the inauguration of the 'Training Days on Hate Crimes: TAHCLE Project' at the Superior Police Headquarters in Cantabria.
The event was attended by key figures including Jesús Arteaga, the Chief Prosecutor of Cantabria, Antonio del Amo, the Chief of Police, and Diana Mirones, who leads the Hate Crimes Unit and is also the head of the Violence Against Women Unit.
Casares emphasised the ongoing nature of these training sessions, which demonstrate the commitment of the nearly 600 police officers in Cantabria to be increasingly prepared and capable of providing an appropriate response to the rising frequency of hate crimes. In Cantabria, reported hate crimes increased from 22 in 2024 to 34 in 2025, with the most recent year seeing 19 incidents related to racism or xenophobia, 10 linked to sexual orientation, 3 due to sex discrimination, and 2 related to religion.
He underscored the importance of coordinated efforts among all institutions, in collaboration with the State Security Forces, local police, and the justice system. 'In the face of this reality, institutions have a duty to act decisively, and in this task, the National Police plays a crucial role in preventing and detecting these behaviours, as well as investigating incidents and providing support and protection to victims,' Casares stated.
Both Casares and Arteaga expressed concern over the low reporting rates among victims of these crimes, who often face significant challenges and vulnerabilities. To address this, Casares stressed the importance of training within the National Police to ensure that victims encounter 'prepared and approachable officers.'
He reiterated his gratitude for the daily work of National Police officers and reaffirmed the Spanish Government's commitment to defending fundamental rights, equality, and combating all forms of discrimination. 'Hate has no place in a democratic society like ours. Combating it, preventing it, and protecting victims is an essential task for the National Police,' he concluded.
