The Spanish government’s decision to open access to the archives about the attempted coup on February 23, 1981 (23-F) has become one of the most talked-about events in recent years. For many Spaniards, this offers a chance to finally learn what truly happened during those days when the fate of democracy hung by a thread. The authorities hope that publishing 153 previously classified documents will help stop the spread of false narratives and counteract the tendency among young people to romanticize the Francoist past.
Starting today, anyone interested can review these materials on the government’s official website (Moncloa). Access is available not only for researchers and journalists, but for all citizens—highlighting a commitment to transparency and an open dialogue about the past. The Minister of Public Affairs, Elma Saiz, explained that this move aims to confront attempts by far-right groups to use myths and conspiracy theories to shape public opinion.
Archives made accessible
For many years, these documents remained classified, a status imposed during the Franco era. Now, with the risk of similar events repeating considered gone, authorities have deemed it possible to disclose details previously available only to a select few. According to Saiz, Spain is correcting an anomaly that set it apart from other European countries; for instance, Germany declassified comparable records about its own history back in 2012.
The release of the archives is not just a historical gesture but also a political signal. The authorities emphasize that the memory of the events of 23-F should not be used as a tool for manipulation or to romanticize the dictatorship. In recent years, debates have intensified in Spain about how young people perceive the past and the dangers of distorting historical facts. That is why the government has decided to act proactively, aiming to prevent the mistakes made in other countries, where such issues have become a source of conflict.
Reaction of society and politicians
The announcement of the declassification of documents has sparked widespread public response. Many historians and journalists have already expressed their intention to closely examine the new materials to provide a more accurate assessment of the events of 1981. Meanwhile, members of the opposition and some civic organizations voiced concerns that the release could be used for political purposes. However, as noted by Ale Espanol, the government remains confident: transparency is the best way to combat disinformation.
During a press conference, Sais emphasized that one of the main objectives remains preventing young people from taking to the streets with Franco-era symbols and slogans. According to her, only honest and open discussion of the past can protect society from repeating tragic mistakes. Before announcing the declassification, the authorities notified the Royal Palace (Zarzuela), underscoring the importance and sensitivity of this step.
Context and comparisons
This is not the first time Spain has faced the need to review its historical archives. In recent years, the country has also debated other high-profile cases involving access to information and court rulings. For example, the Supreme Court was recently in the spotlight due to a dispute over legal costs, sparking a heated reaction in Madrid and possibly influencing future approaches to similar cases — you can read more about this in the article on the dispute over legal costs.
Authorities hope that the new law currently under parliamentary review will make such decisions standard practice rather than exceptions. This should simplify access to important historical data and reduce public distrust. According to experts, opening up the archives could become a turning point in shaping national memory and strengthening democratic values.
The attempted coup d’état on February 23, 1981, was one of the most dramatic moments in Spain’s recent history. A group of military officers tried to seize power, but decisive actions by the king and political leaders preserved democracy. In recent years, interest in these events has grown again, especially among young people, prompting authorities to publish the archives. Similar decisions to declassify documents have been made in other European countries, where transparency has helped reduce distrust and prevent the spread of myths about the past.
