Spain: Political developments and data in 2025: Entering the second half of the legislature with an embattled Government

Abstract

The year 2025 found Spain at the midpoint of the legislative term with increasing political weakness for the left-wing coalition government led by the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party and Sumar. Despite favourable macroeconomic indicators, corruption scandals involving senior Socialist figures, rhetorical rupture with investiture partners, and several legislative defeats contributed to a context of parliamentary fragility. The absence of a new national budget and growing discontent over the housing crisis further weakened the government’s position, although it remained in office and continued to pass some policy measures, such as an increase in the minimum wage. Meanwhile, the opposition intensified competition on the right ahead of the 2026 electoral cycle. Internationally, Spain adopted an active stance, especially regarding the war in Gaza and debates within NATO over defense spending.