Spain

Spain maintains its status as a robust democracy, characterized by strong institutional resilience and a high level of protection for fundamental rights, as evidenced by its aggregate score of 91 in the Freedom in the World 2026 report. The country has successfully navigated a period of intense political polarization, with the constitutional framework proving operational despite the friction of a hung parliament and the complexities of coalition governance. In early 2026, the government of Pedro Sánchez has prioritized the defense of democratic institutions through global initiatives, such as the 4th Meeting In Defence of Democracy held in Barcelona. However, domestic challenges persist, particularly regarding the perceived politicization of the judiciary. Civil society monitors like Liberties have noted that structural weaknesses in judicial appointments and prosecutorial autonomy remain unaddressed, leading to concerns about the enduring susceptibility of courts to political influence. Additionally, the recent update to the law on the right of rectification, intended to combat disinformation by allowing citizens to request the correction of falsehoods disseminated by media and influencers, has sparked debate over the potential impact on freedom of expression. While these institutional and legislative developments introduce layers of scrutiny, the core democratic functions—including fair electoral competition and a vibrant civil society—remain firmly intact.