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Former Guardia Civil Director Leonardo Marcos Investigated in 'Cloacas' Case
Judge Santiago Pedraz has summoned ex-Guardia Civil director Leonardo Marcos as a suspect in the 'Cloacas' case. The investigation centers on alleged efforts to hinder judicial cases affecting the PSOE and the government.
Santiago de Compostela Joins List of Cities with Rent Price Caps
Santiago de Compostela and six other northern cities now face rent price caps. Over 9 million people live in areas with these controls. The move sparks debate between local and regional authorities.
Valencian Community to Receive Record €16.3 Billion in 2027 Funding
The Valencian Community is set for its largest ever state funding in 2027, with €16.3 billion allocated. The Spanish government urges local authorities to negotiate reforms that could further boost resources. Tensions rise over the region's refusal to discuss the new model.
Excavator Ban Breach Blamed for Ávila’s Record Wildfire
Authorities have identified illegal excavator work as the cause of Spain’s largest recent wildfire. Over 50,000 hectares in Ávila were devastated. The incident has led to criminal charges and renewed scrutiny of fire prevention rules.
Ayuso Defends Madrid Government’s Purchase of Luxury Penthouse for Office Use
Madrid’s regional government bought a luxury penthouse in Chamberí for temporary office use. President Isabel Díaz Ayuso denies it is for personal residence. The purchase was not included in the official budget.
Begoña Gómez Appoints New Lawyer Ahead of Jury Trial
Begoña Gómez, wife of Spain’s prime minister, has replaced her defense lawyer. The move comes as a Madrid court confirms her upcoming jury trial for influence peddling and embezzlement.
Partial Pardon for Laura Borràs Sparks Political Tensions in Catalonia
The Spanish government has granted a partial pardon to Laura Borràs, reducing her prison term. However, her 13-year ban from public office stands, fueling political debate and criticism from multiple parties.
Madrid Opposition Slams Ayuso Over Multi-Million Euro Penthouse Purchase
The Community of Madrid’s acquisition of a luxury penthouse for Isabel Díaz Ayuso’s temporary office has triggered sharp criticism from opposition parties. The lack of cost transparency and previous controversial purchases fuel the dispute.
Government Uncovers Excessive Student Exclusion in Catalonia's 2025 PISA Tests
Spain's Education Ministry detected higher-than-allowed student exclusion rates in Catalonia during the 2025 PISA tests. The issue, flagged by the OECD's contractor, delayed full understanding of its impact until 2026.
Wildfire Containment Halts Evacuations in Madrid and Ávila
Firefighters have stopped the advance of wildfires in Madrid and Ávila after a week of crisis. Authorities have lifted evacuation orders for 26 municipalities. Residents face severe property damage as a new heatwave threatens progress.
EU Forces Spain to Cut Home Energy Use: Oldest Buildings Face First Upgrades
Spain must slash residential energy consumption by 16% by 2030 under new EU rules. The toughest measures will target the least efficient homes, but not all owners will be forced to renovate. The government now faces a race to define priorities and support for vulnerable households.
Catalonia Faces Scrutiny After PISA Sampling Error Disrupts Education Data
A major error in Catalonia's PISA 2025 sampling has sparked political tension. The region loses its ability to compare student performance. Unanswered questions now challenge the credibility of the Catalan government.
Madrid Government Buys Luxury Penthouse for Ayuso’s Temporary Office
The Community of Madrid has purchased a 485-square-metre penthouse in Chamberí for Isabel Díaz Ayuso’s use during the Real Casa de Correos renovation. The deal, kept quiet for months, was not included in the official budget.
San Sebastián Halts Volunteer Street Dinners for Homeless Over Safety Concerns
San Sebastián's mayor has abruptly banned volunteer-run street dinners for the homeless, citing hygiene and public order. Over 300 people lose access to nightly meals. The city promises expanded official support, but criticism mounts.
Government Reduces Prison Term for Laura Borràs in Partial Pardon
Spain’s government has approved a partial pardon for Laura Borràs, cutting her prison sentence in half. The decision, made at the final cabinet meeting before summer, also affects four others, including a former mayor and a cultural manager.
Catalan Government Pushes for 2027 Funding Reform Despite Delays
Catalonia insists on passing the new regional funding model by 2026. The government warns that any further delay could threaten budget plans and political alliances. The reform would bring €4.7 billion more annually to the region.
Asturias Toll Operator Faces Record Fine for Full Charges Amid Service Failures
Authorities in Asturias have launched a major sanction against Aucalsa, the AP-66 toll operator, after months of full-price charges despite major traffic restrictions and degraded service. The case could set a new standard for toll road accountability in Spain.
Death Toll Rises to 14 After Los Gallardos Wildfire Victim Dies in Seville
A woman hospitalized in Seville after the Los Gallardos wildfire has died, raising the death toll to 14. Three more victims remain in critical care. The fire, extinguished after 16 days, is the deadliest in Andalusia.
PP Criticizes Pedro Sánchez for 'Insulting Triumphalism' Amid Political Tensions
The Partido Popular has sharply criticized Pedro Sánchez's latest political assessment, calling it disconnected from reality. While Feijóo visits Peru for Keiko Fujimori's inauguration, PP leaders intensify their rhetoric ahead of Spain's next general elections.
Catalonia Moves to Seven-Year Contracts for Top Public Sector Roles
Catalonia’s government has approved a draft law to overhaul public sector leadership. Senior officials may soon face seven-year renewable contracts, performance-based pay, and stricter evaluations. The reform aims to boost accountability and retain talent.
How to Secure the Maximum Grant from Spain’s Plan Auto+ for Electric Cars
Spain’s Plan Auto+ replaces the old MOVES scheme, offering up to €6,000 for electric car buyers. But only those who meet strict criteria can claim the full amount. Here’s what you need to know to maximize your subsidy.
Spain Falls Short on EU Wildfire Prevention Funds Execution
Spain has spent just a quarter of €401 million in EU funds for wildfire prevention since 2022. Most projects remain incomplete. Regional governments handle most spending, while key state initiatives stall.
PSOE Staff Testify Cerdán Approved Leire Díez’s Expenses and Access
Two PSOE employees told the National Court that Santos Cerdán authorized travel expenses and parking access for Leire Díez. Their testimony intensifies the investigation into alleged interference in judicial cases linked to the party.
Zapatero Faces Credibility Crisis Over Jewelry Gift Explanation
José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero’s attempt to justify receiving expensive jewelry has sparked a public debate. His explanation challenges established ethical standards for officials. The case now raises broader questions about political accountability in Spain.
Sánchez Faces Opposition Hurdle in Push for Climate Emergency Pact
Pedro Sánchez calls for a national pact on climate emergency as wildfires devastate Spain. Opposition parties remain reluctant to negotiate, raising doubts about real progress. The government’s approach faces renewed scrutiny.
Critical 24 Hours for Ávila and Madrid as Wildfires Threaten Thousands
Wildfires in Ávila, Toledo, and Madrid have forced over 90,000 evacuations. Authorities race to contain the flames before a new heatwave. The government prepares emergency measures for affected workers and regions.
Supreme Court Grants Amnesty to Meritxell Serret in 1-O Case
Spain’s Supreme Court has annulled Meritxell Serret’s conviction for disobedience over the 2017 Catalan referendum. The decision follows the new amnesty law and recent EU court backing. Serret is the first ex-minister to benefit.
Spain Faces Largest Evacuation in Decades as Wildfires Spread
Wildfires have forced over 73,000 people to leave their homes in four provinces. Authorities declared a national emergency. Nearly 171,000 residents are affected by evacuations and confinement.
Democracy Tested by the Challenge of Accepting Defeat
Spain faces a crucial test for its democratic institutions. The real measure is not in victory, but in how power concedes defeat. Two threats—populism and technocracy—now put this principle under pressure.
PP Rejects State Pact on Climate as Political Truce Fades
The PP refuses to negotiate a national climate pact, challenging the government’s push for unified action. Political tensions rise as wildfires intensify and calls for cooperation are ignored.
Catalan Government Faces Backlash Over PISA Testing Error
A major error in Catalonia's PISA test sampling has blocked comparison with previous years. The government blames technical confusion, while opposition parties demand accountability. Schools express frustration over being singled out.
Spain Moves to Ban Smoking on Outdoor Terraces and Public Spaces
The Spanish government is set to expand smoke-free zones, including outdoor terraces and public events, under a new anti-tobacco bill. The proposal also tightens rules on vaping and increases fines, but enforcement will only begin after parliamentary approval.
SEPE Unveils Easier Online and Phone Access for Unemployed
Applying for unemployment or subsidies in Spain just became simpler. SEPE now accepts temporary codes, contrast data, and other accessible identification methods for many procedures, reducing the need for digital certificates and expanding online and phone options.
Wildfires in Madrid and Ávila Force Mass Evacuations and Emergency Measures
Major wildfires in Madrid, Ávila, and Castellón have led to over 55,000 evacuations and confinements. Authorities warn of worsening conditions as a new heatwave approaches. Emergency services focus on protecting urban areas and critical infrastructure.
Catalan Government to Pay €12,500 to Child Sex Abuse Victim in DGAIA Care
The Generalitat will compensate a child who suffered sexual assault in a DGAIA centre in Barcelona. The case exposes failures in child protection and highlights ongoing trauma for the victim. Authorities face renewed pressure to address systemic issues.
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