Concerns over the state of democracy in Spain have reached a critical point, prompting a plea from citizens to the European Union to intervene.
A manifesto addressed to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has garnered over 230,000 signatures within 24 hours, urging EU action to preserve the rule of law in Spain.
The manifesto, accessible on the website savespanishruleoflaw.org, explicitly states, “Spanish democracy is at risk,” and calls upon the EU to prevent what it describes as an “undemocratic and immoral alliance” between the PSOE and Junts per Catalunya.
This appeal coincides with a scheduled debate in Brussels on Wednesday by MEPs, specifically addressing the potential threat to the rule of law in Spain resulting from recent political agreements.
The focal point of the manifesto is the contentious pact between the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) and Junts per Catalunya, aimed at securing support for the investiture of Pedro Sánchez.
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The controversial aspects include the proposed amnesty for individuals indicted in connection to the ‘procés’ and the alignment with the Catalan pro-independence narrative regarding ‘lawfare’.
The European Parliament has not only applauded the decision to hold a debate on the “Threat to the rule of law as a consequence of the government agreement in Spain” but has also issued a warning. The manifesto emphasises the urgency for the EU to act promptly, stating, “This is a great danger to the European project. The EU must act before it is too late.”
The initiative outlines the perceived dangers of politicians granting impunity for political gain and highlights the control that figures like Carles Puigdemont may exert on the Spanish government from abroad.
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It also references the conflicting stance of the socialists before the elections, denying any plans for amnesty.
In anticipation of the Brussels debate on amnesty, the manifesto directly calls on the European Commission to investigate the violation of EU values.
Additionally, it urges the Socialist and Democrat Group, which encompasses the PSOE in European institutions, to suspend its membership until it provides “effective public guarantees” of withdrawing from the agreement with the ultra-nationalist Junts.
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This citizen-led movement aligns with private individuals expressing concerns to EU justice officials, warning them of the potential erosion of Spanish democracy under President Sánchez’s leadership.
European officials have begun to voice their reservations, with Carles Puigdemont accusing them of rebellion.
Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders has already sought explanations from the PSOE regarding the proposed amnesty.
Despite initial dismissals by the new Minister for the Presidency, Relations with Parliament, and Justice, Félix Bolaños, sources have confirmed his plans to travel to Brussels this week to elucidate the circumstances surrounding the law’s development.
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