Spain’s political scene is heating up once again as the central government moves towards open confrontation with regional administrations controlled by the People’s Party. The main focus is on education and healthcare, where the private sector—especially in universities and medical services—has gained significant ground in recent months.
After the summer break, the cabinet has stepped up its efforts to regain the initiative in shaping the political agenda. The actions now go beyond bold statements, with concrete measures aimed at shifting the balance between public and private institutions in key areas of society.
Particular attention is on Madrid and Andalusia, where local authorities are actively supporting the opening of new private universities and expanding opportunities for private medical companies. Meanwhile, the central government is prioritizing affordable housing development and increasing the share of the public sector in education and healthcare. On Tuesday, a major project was announced to build 210,000 new apartments, which is expected to boost the nation’s share of social housing fivefold.
Minister of Universities Diana Morant has proposed an initiative to curb the unchecked growth of private universities through a new decree. In response, Madrid authorities have vowed to challenge the move, viewing it as an attempt to undermine entrepreneurial freedom. The government insists that without state intervention, access to education and healthcare becomes a privilege for the few, rather than a right for all.
At the same time, Spain faces pressing concerns over access to medical services. In some regions, such as Andalusia, private insurance and clinics are pushing out public hospitals, while scandals over delays in diagnosis and treatment continue to fuel the controversy. Health Minister Monica Garcia openly states: policies by regional authorities are forcing thousands of people to turn to private clinics to receive timely care.
The national authorities intend to further increase pressure on regional leaders, particularly Isabel Díaz Ayuso and Juan Manuel Moreno, highlighting the differences between the central government’s approach and that of the opposition. New initiatives aimed at protecting the public interest in education, healthcare, and housing policy are expected in the coming months. Meanwhile, opponents are already preparing countermeasures, and the political struggle appears to be gaining momentum.
