Politics & Government Guide in Spain
Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions
Spain is a constitutional monarchy led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez of the Socialist Workers' Party, who has maintained power through three general elections since 2018. The government operates as a minority coalition with strong economic performance, though political stability depends on parliamentary support from smaller parties. Recent cabinet reorganization in March 2026 reflects ongoing governance adjustments within the established democratic framework.
Political Stability
Good
Corruption Index
Moderate
Democracy Index
Good
Government Type
Constitutional Monarchy
Legal System
Civil law system based on the 1978 Constitution with regional variations
Head of State
King Felipe VI(since 2014)
Head of Government
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez(Spanish Socialist Workers' Party)since 2018
Political Indicators
Political Stability
Scale: 0-1
Stable
World Bank Political Stability Index (2024)
Corruption Index
Scale: 0-100
Transparency International (2024)
Press Freedom
Scale: 0-100
Reporters Without Borders (2024)
Democracy Index
Scale: 0-10
Full Democracy
Economist Intelligence Unit (2024)
Legislature
Major Political Parties
Center-left
Center-right
Far-right
Left
Voting Rights
Spanish citizens aged 18 and over have the right to vote in all elections. EU citizens resident in Spain can vote in local and European Parliament elections. Full voting rights in national elections require Spanish citizenship.
Recent Developments
- Carlos Cuerpo appointed as First Vice-President of Government in March 2026, replacing María Jesús Montero
- Arcadi España appointed as Finance Minister in March 2026, replacing previous minister
- Spanish economy projected to grow 2.8% in 2025 with stabilized public debt
- Vox returned to regional power in coalition government with People's Party in April 2026
- PSOE-led government maintains minority coalition status with continued policy delivery focus
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