Spanish prosecutors have dismissed an investigation into sexual abuse allegations made against legendary singer Julio Iglesias, citing a lack of jurisdiction. Authorities ruled that Spanish courts were not competent to investigate the claims because the alleged incidents took place outside Spain and involved complainants who are neither Spanish citizens nor residents. The women also had no connection to Spain through travel or employment with the singer.
The complaints were filed earlier this month by two former female employees who alleged that Iglesias created a coercive and abusive environment while they worked at his properties in the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic in 2021. The case was submitted to Spain’s national court, which handles crimes committed abroad, with support from advocacy groups including Women’s Link Worldwide and Amnesty International. These groups argued the alleged acts could amount to human trafficking and sexual violence, involving vulnerable workers dependent on their wages.
However, prosecutors concluded that the principle of universal jurisdiction did not apply in this case and said the countries where the alleged incidents occurred had the authority to investigate the claims themselves. Iglesias, 82, has strongly denied the accusations, calling them “absolutely false” and expressing sadness over the allegations. The globally renowned artist, who has sold more than 300 million records, is also the father of singer Enrique Iglesias.
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