Jordi Sevilla, former minister and a prominent figure in Spanish politics, has decided to shake up the socialist ranks. He urges the members and supporters of PSOE to reassess the party’s direction and restore its core values. At the heart of his initiative is a manifesto titled Socialdemocracia21, set to be released to the public this coming Monday. Unusually, Sevilla is not relying on high-profile signatories but is focusing attention solely on the substance and ideas of the document.
In a brief video address accompanying the launch of the manifesto, Sevilla emphasizes that his proposals are not targeted at anyone personally. The main goal is to move away from populist trends and bring social democracy back to the forefront. In his view, especially now, as the political landscape in Europe and around the world shifts under the influence of powerful leaders like Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and Xi Jinping, Spain needs balanced and responsible politics more than ever.
Challenges for the Party
Sevilla does not hide his disappointment that the country’s two largest parties—PSOE and the Partido Popular—cannot find common ground, even on key issues. He believes that this inability to engage in dialogue hurts not just the political system but society as a whole. At the same time, he does not place blame solely on one side, stressing that the responsibility lies with both.
The nine-page manifesto presents a series of proposals to reform party operations and political practices. It places particular emphasis on fighting corruption and safeguarding the dignity of women. Sevilla insists that parties should not be closed clubs, but open platforms for discussion and representation of citizens’ interests. He strongly opposes turning political organizations into sects united around charismatic leaders.
Social Democracy Without Compromises
In the document, Sevilla calls for a return to the classic principles of social democracy, which he believes have been lost in recent years. He stresses the need to update the political agenda to meet the challenges of the modern world. Specifically, he highlights the importance of protecting social rights, ensuring equal opportunities, and strengthening democratic institutions.
A separate section is devoted to the party’s internal affairs. Sevilla emphasizes that change must start with politicians themselves and their relationship to power. He calls for greater transparency, honesty, and accountability. According to him, only this approach can restore voters’ trust and breathe new life into the party.
Without Changing the Leader
Although many critics of current Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez see Seville’s initiative as an attempt to unseat the leader, the manifesto’s author denies such intentions. He emphasizes that he does not intend to participate in the race for secretary general. In his view, the leadership issue should be resolved through primaries, not behind-the-scenes maneuvering.
Seville points out that his goal is not to change the leadership, but to launch a broad discussion about the future of the party and the country. He believes that only open dialogue and honest debate on challenges will help PSOE reconnect with its roots and once again become a driving force for change.
A call to action
In closing his address, Seville invites everyone who cares to join the discussion and support the manifesto. He hopes that the initiative will resonate not only with longtime party members, but also with a new generation seeking meaning and values in politics. According to him, now is the right time for bold moves and a rethinking of social democracy’s role in Spain.
It remains to be seen how widespread support for this initiative will be and how it will affect the balance of power within PSOE. One thing is certain: Socialdemocracia21’s manifesto will not leave the Spanish political scene indifferent.
