The lower house of the Spanish parliament has enacted updated regulations governing the work of journalists. Under the new provisions, media representatives are prohibited from making audio and video recordings in areas where this could affect privacy or breach the confidentiality of communications. The ban applies to all cafes, restaurants, offices, parking lots, basements, and administrative spaces, as well as zones with installed security systems, particularly at the entrances to parliamentary buildings. Access to these areas is permitted only with special authorization.
The reform, supported by the PSOE and Sumar factions, is aimed at preventing incidents involving radical activists who have disrupted press conferences and exerted pressure on deputies and media workers. In July 2025, the Congress approved amendments to the regulations introducing sanctions for such actions. The new rules set out the procedures for applying these measures in detail.
Opposition members of the People’s Party (PP) have voiced dissatisfaction with the changes, arguing that they restrict fundamental rights and complicate the ability to ask challenging questions to the government. From now on, interviews and comments can only be obtained with the interviewee’s consent, and journalists are required to respect refusals without attempting to pursue further.
The use of mobile devices and cameras for covert filming is also prohibited. You may not approach event participants with equipment turned on without their prior consent. The only exception is public areas where press activity traditionally takes place.
The reform came into effect on July 22. It provides for three levels of violations: from minor to particularly serious. Depending on the severity of the offense, violators face warnings, temporary suspension of accreditation, or its complete revocation. All accredited media must sign a document acknowledging and agreeing to comply with the new rules.
Complaints about violations will be sent to the General Secretariat of the Congress, where an investigation will begin. The final decision will be made by the chamber’s leadership, based on the findings of the advisory board.
A special body has been established to monitor compliance with the regulations. It includes representatives from the parliament’s press office, political groups, leadership, and journalism associations.
Those wishing to cover the Congress are required to obtain permission from the press office, as well as confirm editorial independence, financial transparency, a clear organizational structure, and a staff of at least ten employees.
