Barça wonderkid Lamine Yamal is at the center of a political and media storm in Spain after details of his 18th birthday party emerged — including the use of people with dwarfism as “entertainment.”
Phones were banned, blonde hostesses were hired for “atmosphere,” and individuals with dwarfism were reportedly employed for amusement during the event. The Spanish Ministry of Social Rights has now requested an official inquiry.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Ombudsman, and the Office for Hate Crimes have been alerted to determine whether Yamal’s party violated Spain’s disability rights laws.
No charges for Yamal… but new law incoming?
Under current legislation, Yamal will not face criminal charges, as Spanish law forbids using people with dwarfism as entertainment but does not provide for penalties.
However, this case may accelerate legal reform. The Spanish government aims to close the loophole, inspired by previous controversial acts like the “bombero torero” (clown bullfighters). A new law could soon classify such practices as “serious infractions”, with fines up to €1 million.
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