Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said in a recent interview that he is unfamiliar with the content of the newly released memoirs of Juan Carlos I. The book, co-authored with Laurence Debray, has already sparked considerable public debate, even though it will not officially hit Spanish store shelves until early December. Despite the public’s interest in the former monarch, Sánchez is in no hurry to add this work to the list of recommended gifts for the winter holidays.
In his memoirs, the former king provides a detailed account of key moments in his life: from his birth in Rome, where his family lived in exile, to his voluntary move to Abu Dhabi following a series of high-profile scandals. He pays special attention to his relationship with Francisco Franco, who played a decisive role in the future monarch’s fate. Juan Carlos shares personal impressions of the dictator, reflects on the complex bond between them, and recounts how he was offered the Spanish throne.
Commenting on the publication, Sánchez noted that some parts of the book surprised him. In particular, he was struck by the discussions about who really laid the foundation for modern democracy in the country. According to the prime minister, change became possible thanks to the efforts of ordinary citizens, not just the decisions of individual historical figures. He emphasized that the current royal family is fulfilling its duties with dignity and expressed his respect for their work.
The release of Juan Carlos I’s memoirs has once again sparked debate about the role of the monarchy in Spain’s recent history. Discussion of the book and reactions from politicians and the public are likely to continue even after its official release. Meanwhile, Sánchez hinted that he would rather find other books under the Christmas tree than the former king’s autobiography.
