In Spain, debate has reignited over the possible return of former monarch Juan Carlos I. The topic gained new prominence after the release of previously classified materials about the events of February 23, 1981, when the country stood on the brink of a military coup. For many Spaniards, the question of the ex-king’s return is intertwined not only with historical memory, but also with how the nation interprets its past and the monarchy’s place in modern society.
According to Ale Espanol, the discussion began when the leader of the Partido Popular, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, publicly voiced support for Juan Carlos I’s return to his homeland. He stated that the disclosure of the 23-F documents should serve as an opportunity for society to reconcile with the man whom many credit with playing a key role in preventing the military rebellion. Among other things, these documents include a CESID intelligence report describing how the king stopped General Armada from attempting to seize the Zarzuela Palace.
Government response
In response to Feijóo’s initiative, representatives of the government and the Royal Household emphasized that the decision to return rests entirely with Juan Carlos I himself. Félix Bolaños, Minister of the Presidency, noted that neither the government nor the opposition can influence this matter. According to him, the former monarch is free to come to Spain whenever he wishes, and there are no official barriers to his return. The minister also recalled that the ex-king has already visited the country on several occasions, although he has not stayed at the Zarzuela residence.
This position was echoed by the Minister for Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, Elma Saiz. She stated that the authorities would respect any decision made by Juan Carlos I. At the same time, the minister stressed that publishing classified documents is a step towards greater transparency and a way to dispel rumors that have surrounded the former monarch for years.
Public debate
The public continues to debate whether it is appropriate for Juan Carlos I to return, considering his past scandals related to finances and personal life. As a reminder, in August 2020 the ex-king left Spain and moved to Abu Dhabi, explaining the decision as a way not to interfere in the work of his son, the current king Felipe VI. Since then, he has lived abroad, occasionally returning for sporting events such as the regattas in Sanxenxo (Pontevedra), but has never stayed overnight at the official residence.
Since his departure, Juan Carlos I has not received the annual payment previously stipulated in the Royal Household’s budget. In his recent memoirs, the former monarch expressed a desire to return to Spain, but did not specify any concrete dates or plans. Meanwhile, as reported by Ale Espanol, public debate continues over his role in the country’s history and how his return could impact the monarchy’s image.
Historical context
The publication of classified documents about the events of 23-F has once again brought attention to some of the most turbulent moments in Spanish history. These records offer a detailed account of how King Juan Carlos I acted during the critical night to prevent a military coup. The specifics of these negotiations and the monarch’s role in stabilizing the situation were previously covered in the article about the late-night talks and the king’s actions in 1981.
In recent years, Spain has repeatedly faced debates over the monarchy’s role and its future. Each new round of public discussion is usually sparked by the release of new facts or statements from politicians. The renewed interest in the possible return of Juan Carlos I highlights that for many citizens, issues of historical justice and personal accountability remain pressing. Similar calls for clarification and transparency from the authorities and the Royal Household arose after the publication of other archival materials.
Reflecting on recent events, it is worth noting that in 2024 there was also a discussion about the return of former public officials associated with key moments in the country’s history. Then, as now, the decision was left to the individuals themselves, while authorities maintained a neutral stance. This highlights that in Spain, issues of personal choice and historical memory continue to spark active interest and debate.
