Madrid hosted a meeting of the national commission dedicated to the 500th anniversary of the Consejo de Estado—the oldest consultative body in Europe, founded in 1526. The event was presided over by King Felipe VI, who pointed out that the Council’s activities often remain out of sight for most citizens. The monarch admitted that he himself first became acquainted with the work of this institution only during his law studies at the Autonomous University of Madrid.
Felipe VI noted that the anniversary is an appropriate moment to bridge society’s knowledge gaps about the Council. He emphasized the importance of communicating its mission and history using accessible and inclusive language. According to the king, clear communication is one of the main challenges for legal institutions seeking to be closer to the public.
The Council’s Role
In his speech, Felipe VI highlighted the significance of the Consejo de Estado as a tool to strengthen civic consensus, especially in an era of rapid change. He recalled that this year marks not only the Council’s anniversary but also fifty years since Francisco Franco’s death and the beginning of Spain’s democratic transformation after the restoration of the monarchy.
On the same day, former king Juan Carlos I, who was not invited to the official event, released a video message. In it, he recalled his contribution to Spanish history and announced the upcoming release of his memoirs, which will soon go on sale.
Modern challenges
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recalled that the Council of State was created in a completely different world, where modern social rights did not exist and women did not have full civic status. He stressed that today the body helps make the work of the executive branch more precise and balanced, especially after heated debates and discussions.
Sánchez also highlighted the Council’s educational role: it teaches that the separation of powers is more effective than its concentration, and that a society capable of dialogue is freer than one that acts impulsively.
Interests of society
Carmen Calvo, who took over as head of the Council of State in March 2024, stated that the main task of the body is to serve the common good, strengthen democracy, and ensure legal precision in the state. She emphasized that the Council creates a space for calm analysis, especially at a time when society needs clarity and caution.
Referring to the founder of the Council, Emperor Charles V, Calvo reminded that the most enduring power is the one based on wise decisions. In the near future, the commission will prepare a program of anniversary events, with special attention to cooperation with similar institutions in Europe and Latin America.
