A heated debate is unfolding in Spain over the future of official government accounts on the social network X (formerly Twitter). Minister for Youth and Children Sira Rego has proposed shutting down all government pages on this platform and has even suggested the possibility of a complete ban on X in the country. The reason: concerns about violations of citizens’ fundamental rights and non-compliance with European digital security standards. For Spaniards, this could mean a drastic change in how they access information and interact with government institutions.
Minister’s tough stance
Sira Rego has openly stated she supports the strictest possible restrictions on X if the platform continues to ignore European laws and allows actions threatening users’ rights. The minister recalled that she herself left X more than a year ago, describing the network’s atmosphere as toxic and the behavior of platform owner Elon Musk as unacceptable. According to her, other ministers from the Sumar bloc, including Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz, have taken similar steps.
Despite this, the official account of the ministry led by Rego remains active on X, since its management is overseen by the State Secretariat for Communications, which reports to the Prime Minister’s administration. The minister emphasized that it is up to the government to decide whether all 22 official ministerial accounts on X should be definitively shut down, taking into account the latest controversial statements by Elon Musk and his public attacks on Spanish leaders.
Accusations and threats
In recent days, the conflict between the Spanish government and Elon Musk has escalated. Musk publicly called Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez a “tyrant” and a “traitor to the people of Spain” after authorities proposed limiting social media access for minors. Sira Rego responded that such behavior from the owner of X is unacceptable, adding that the platform has become a breeding ground for dangerous content, including cases of child pornography being spread with the help of artificial intelligence Grok, which is connected to Musk. The minister insists on urgent measures to protect children and teenagers, as well as tighter control over the digital environment.
Rego emphasized that the lack of clear regulation allows major tech companies to set their own rules, jeopardizing citizens’ rights and freedoms. She recalled that in Europe, directives are already in place allowing platforms to be shut down if they systematically break the law and receive multiple fines. In her view, the situation with X requires immediate intervention to prevent further spread of illegal content and abuses.
Counterstatements and new challenges
The scandal around X coincided with another high-profile episode: Telegram’s founder Pavel Durov addressed Spanish users, warning of potential restrictions on internet freedom due to new government initiatives. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez responded by stating he would not allow ‘tech oligarchs’ to interfere in the country’s politics or manipulate public opinion. Government officials highlight that, for the first time in Spain’s history, foreign owners of digital platforms are openly attacking state institutions, further confirming the urgent need to regulate social networks and messaging services.
Authorities have stated they will not allow foreign tech giants to spread propaganda unchecked or violate Spanish law under the pretext of defending free speech. In the near future, new measures are expected to be discussed to control the digital space, including a possible ban on X and tighter regulations for other platforms.
Context and Consequences
In recent years, Spain has repeatedly faced conflicts between the state and major digital platforms. Scandals over the spread of fake news, election interference, and violations of user rights have already led to high-profile investigations and fines. European regulators are increasing pressure on tech companies, demanding transparency and accountability for content. In 2025, similar debates erupted in France and Germany, where authorities also considered temporarily blocking some social networks due to national security concerns.
Recalling recent events, it’s worth noting that last month Madrid authorities opposed changes in budget allocations, accusing the government of making concessions to Catalan nationalists. This led to a major standoff, which we covered in detail in the article “Madrid Braces for Legal Battle Over New Regional Funding Scheme”. Such conflicts highlight how sensitive issues of control and regulation are in Spain—both in the digital and financial spheres.
