Tensions are rising in Madrid: the Junts party has announced it will withdraw support for all bills currently under consideration in parliament. This decision puts not only ongoing initiatives at risk, but also threatens the stability of the entire legislative process. Junts representatives have proposed amendments to 25 bills, and another 21 documents are now at risk of being rejected. New initiatives, even those approved by the Council of Ministers, also face the prospect of being blocked during parliamentary hearings.
At the same time, despite its tough rhetoric, Junts is not considering joining forces with the opposition to initiate a no-confidence vote against the current prime minister. This leaves the government room to maneuver, but also forces it to speed up the implementation of previously reached agreements. Authorities emphasize that some commitments are already being fulfilled, yet they are ready to go further to restore dialogue and defuse tensions.
However, key issues—such as devolving powers over migration to Catalonia and laws relating to repeated offenses and illegal property occupation—do not depend solely on Junts’ position. Here, the decisive factor is Podemos’ support, which so far is not forthcoming. Previously, the party has blocked similar proposals, and its stance remains unchanged.
European direction and the language issue
Alongside internal disagreements, the government is working to push forward the issue of Catalan’s official recognition at the EU level. Negotiations are underway with European leaders and members of the European Parliament. Catalan officials acknowledge Madrid’s efforts but admit that the process requires time and extensive diplomatic engagement.
Another contentious issue is the application of the amnesty law to Junts leader Carles Puigdemont. This matter has moved beyond political agreements and is now in the hands of the courts, including the Constitutional Court and European bodies. Authorities acknowledge their limited influence over how events will unfold.
Possible scenarios and risks for the government
Despite the escalating situation, the government sees no grounds for early elections. Even if parliamentary work becomes more difficult, the executive branch still has room to implement its policies. Moreover, Junts has already indicated it will back several previously agreed laws, including the key sustainable mobility project, which is essential for securing substantial EU funding.
However, the split with Junts makes the second half of the current legislative term significantly more complicated. Last October, Junts members voted by a majority to end cooperation with the Socialists, following lengthy internal debates. Now the government must seek new ways to maintain a parliamentary majority and push through its initiatives amid growing political turbulence.
