Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain – The University of Barcelona (UB) has taken the unprecedented step of referring the ‘Flecha Case’ to the Prosecutor’s Office, citing accusations of sexual and psychological coercion that align with the characteristics of a ‘high-control coercive group.’ This decision comes amidst an ongoing internal investigation into allegations against Ramón Flecha, an emeritus professor of Sociology and former director of CREA (Community of Research on Excellence for All).
The ‘Flecha Case’: A Pattern of Abuse Unveiled
The case, which first came to light in July, involves 16 women who have accused Ramón Flecha of repeated abuse of power, sexual coercion, and psychological manipulation spanning over two decades. These women, who were students, scholarship recipients, doctoral candidates, or subordinates, describe a pattern of behavior that includes maintaining sexual relationships with Flecha within a clear hierarchical imbalance, coupled with sexual harassment, psychological violence, and labor exploitation.
According to the denunciations, Flecha’s modus operandi involved initiating contact within academic settings, offering personal relationships, and enticing women with opportunities to join CREA, participate in projects, or receive doctoral guidance. These interactions often began with informal meetings where Flecha would delve into intimate details of their traumas, gradually escalating to insinuations, physical contact, and sexual relations, often simultaneously with multiple women. The coercion extended to controlling their attire, behavior, and even their eating and drinking habits.
CREA: A ‘Sect-like’ Environment?
The allegations also suggest that CREA, a research center ironically specializing in sexual violence in universities, operated in a manner akin to a sect. This is not the first time CREA has faced such accusations; similar concerns were raised in 2016, though an investigation at the time was ultimately shelved. The current denunciations indicate that women within CREA would validate Flecha’s behavior, and any attempt by former members to expose their experiences would be met with a campaign of professional discredit.
Flecha, who officially stepped down as CREA’s director in 2006 but reportedly continued to lead the center in practice, has consistently maintained his innocence, portraying himself as a victim of gender violence complaints.
University’s Response: Suspensions and Escalation
Initially, the university hesitated to act, claiming the initial letter in June was merely an ‘information request’ rather than a formal complaint, and distancing itself from CREA, stating it was no longer affiliated with the UB since 2015. However, following the formal denunciations by 16 women, Rector Joan Guàrdia took decisive action. This included the temporary suspension of Flecha, the activation of an investigative commission, and the prohibition of CREA from conducting any activities within UB buildings.
The investigative commission, comprising specialists in gender violence and institutional harassment, began its work in September. To date, it has interviewed 11 victims, whose testimonies describe ‘very serious facts’ involving UB personnel. A provisional report from the commission substantiates the veracity of these testimonies, concluding that the narrated events are consistent with sexual coercion, psychological coercion, abuse, personal and professional exploitation, as well as demeaning and intimidating behaviors indicative of a high-control coercive group.
Further Measures and Ongoing Investigation
Based on these findings, Rector Guàrdia announced several critical decisions. The case has been formally referred to the Prosecutor’s Office for potential criminal proceedings, with the university pledging to act as a private prosecutor if a case is opened. Additionally, two other UB professors, whose names have not been disclosed, have been suspended from work, though they will continue to receive their salaries pending a firm resolution. The honorary professorship of a third retired faculty member has also been suspended.
The commission’s investigation is ongoing, with testimonies from the accused still pending. The university is also committed to providing psychological support to affected individuals and exploring ways to prevent those implicated from using their academic merits to influence future selection processes.
A Systemic Issue?
This situation is not an isolated incident. The feminist assembly on campus has highlighted a systemic pattern of abuse of power spanning decades, often shielded by a university system that failed to intervene effectively. Previous investigations into CREA in 2004 (regarding scholarship management and internal functioning) and 2016 (allegations of sectarian behavior and psychological abuse) were ultimately closed due to a lack of evidence. However, the university now hopes that the current case will proceed, given the clearer typification of offenses and a heightened societal awareness of such issues.
Doubling of Cases
A recent report presented during the university’s claustro revealed a significant increase in cases related to equality and non-discrimination. In 2025, the UB managed 98 cases, more than double the number in 2024. These included 46 consultations, 44 complaints, and 8 denunciations, primarily concerning harassment and sexual assault, with all accused being male. This surge is attributed to an ‘increase in confidence’ within the educational community towards the university’s reporting mechanisms.
The most common consultations relate to training, protocol application, and resources for victims of gender violence. Complaints frequently involve sexist behavior, harassment, and gender violence. Two of the denunciations received between 2024 and 2025 have already progressed to criminal proceedings. Furthermore, five disciplinary proceedings were initiated between 2023 and 2024, resulting in the suspension of university personnel or student rights. The report also notes that 17 individuals are currently receiving support from the campus psychology unit.
The UB’s proactive stance in the ‘Flecha Case’ signals a potential turning point in addressing long-standing issues of abuse and coercion within academic institutions, emphasizing accountability and victim support.
