The Colombian superstar accuses Spain’s treasury of sexism and racism, comparing her tax case to an inquisition trial.

Shakira has fiercely criticized the Spanish treasury for their handling of her tax fraud case, comparing the legal process to a public “Inquisition trial.” The Colombian pop star, who faced accusations of defrauding the Spanish state of €14.5 million in unpaid taxes, expressed outrage in a letter published by El Mundo, a major Spanish newspaper. In her tirade, Shakira accused the authorities of sexism, racism, and manipulation, arguing that the entire affair was a deliberate attempt to destroy her reputation.

The music icon agreed to a settlement in 2023, which included a suspended three-year prison sentence and a €7 million fine. However, she emphasized that her decision to settle was not an admission of guilt but rather a way to protect her two children from the emotional toll of a prolonged legal battle. “I paid this settlement to protect my children,” she wrote, stressing that she did so to avoid them growing up under the shadow of her legal troubles.

Shakira’s letter also took aim at the media coverage surrounding her case, expressing frustration with how the Spanish press portrayed the situation. She claimed that much of the media coverage was fueled by government tactics designed to manipulate public opinion and present her as a criminal. “The most frustrating part,” she wrote, “was seeing how this case was used as a tool to destroy my public image.”

The singer, known for her global hits and philanthropy, maintains her innocence and insists that she has always fulfilled her tax obligations. She believes that her celebrity status made her an easy target for Spanish authorities seeking to make an example out of her, likening the scrutiny she faced to being “burned at the stake.”

Shakira’s bold public response comes at a critical time as her legal and personal battles continue to play out on the global stage. Though she has settled her case, her outspoken defence has sparked debates about the fairness of the Spanish legal system, particularly when it comes to high-profile individuals.

Analysis:

Political: Shakira’s allegations against the Spanish treasury shed light on a broader pattern in Spain’s tax enforcement policies, which have targeted several high-profile figures in recent years. Some critics argue that the Spanish government has strategically pursued cases against celebrities, leveraging their fame to demonstrate its commitment to cracking down on tax evasion. Politically, Shakira’s claims raise questions about fairness and the possible use of celebrities as scapegoats to distract from larger systemic issues, like loopholes that allow major corporations to evade taxes.

Social: The controversy surrounding Shakira’s case mirrors societal concerns about wealth, privilege, and justice. For many, the notion that wealthy individuals can evade taxes with minimal consequences fuels existing frustrations about economic inequality. Shakira’s defense, particularly her claim that the Spanish authorities targeted her as a celebrity, taps into the tension between public figures and the general populace. Her situation resonates with fans who see her as a relatable figure fighting against perceived injustice, yet it also raises issues about accountability for the elite.

Racial: Shakira’s accusations of racism in her case introduce an important element to the conversation. By invoking her Colombian roots and suggesting that her ethnic background played a role in how she was treated, Shakira highlights the potential for bias within Spain’s legal and tax systems. Historically, Spain’s colonial past and its complex relationship with Latin America have led to debates about racial and ethnic biases that persist in its institutions. Shakira’s situation may spark renewed discussions about how non-European public figures are treated compared to their European counterparts, especially within the realm of high-stakes legal cases.

Gender: The singer’s accusations of sexism add a significant dimension to her case. By claiming that her treatment by the Spanish authorities was influenced by gender bias, Shakira draws attention to the different standards often applied to women, especially in the public eye. In cases involving powerful women, societal expectations about how they should behave can exacerbate the scrutiny they face. Shakira’s assertion that the authorities aimed to “burn her at the stake” echoes the historical persecution of women who defied societal norms, suggesting that her experience may be part of a broader pattern of gendered persecution.

Economic: Shakira’s tax case not only affects her personal finances but also raises broader questions about the economic strategies employed by governments in pursuing tax evasion. Spain’s aggressive approach to tax collection from celebrities is seen by some as a means to replenish state funds, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, when austerity measures were widely implemented. The Spanish treasury’s pursuit of high-profile figures like Shakira highlights the economic stakes involved in tax collection and enforcement, as well as the potential risks of exploiting celebrity cases for economic gain. At the same time, it raises concerns about fairness, as critics argue that individuals with less fame and wealth may be treated differently in similar cases.