The European social democracy is relieved by Pedro Sánchez’s decision to remain at the helm of the Spanish government, after five days of reflection in response to what he described as attacks from the “mud-slinging machine” against his family due to the judicial case opened against his wife. Sánchez, a highly respected politician in Brussels, has elevated Spain’s role in the EU and achieved significant political gains. His continued leadership provides stability for the European social democracy ahead of crucial European Parliament elections, which may be influenced by the rise of the far right and populism, as indicated by polls. The uncertainty has now been cleared: Sánchez will not have “unconditional resistance,” as he stated, but he remains in power. The EU left now awaits Sánchez’s proposals to prevent a political scene marked by disinformation and polarization, which is a reality not only affecting Spain.
Nicolas Schmit, the European Commissioner for Social Rights and the lead candidate for the European Socialists to preside over the European Commission, emphasizes the need for the impressive work and progressive policies of socialist-led governments to continue. He highlights the importance of defending democracy, equity, and decency in public life alongside Pedro Sánchez to counteract the right’s politicization resembling that of Trump. Iratxe García, leader of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament, expresses a sense of relief at Sánchez’s decision, acknowledging Spain’s leadership in many social democratic decisions in Europe. Sánchez will now have to dispel any doubts regarding the allegations of influence trafficking against his wife raised by far-right organizations in the eyes of his European colleagues.
Sánchez’s departure would have left the European left in a compromised position, as it would have only three leaders in the European Council without him: Olaf Scholz of Germany, Mette Friederiksen of Denmark, and Robert Abela of Malta. While Romania’s Prime Minister, Marcel Ciolacu, is a socialist, the country is represented in the institution by conservative President Klaus Iohannis. His departure would have also deprived the EU of a key voice in the distribution of major EU positions following the European elections. However, the name of Sánchez was already being considered for one of these positions, the presidency of the European Council, currently held by Charles Michel and becoming vacant at the end of the year.
There was much silence in Brussels during Sánchez’s “reflection” period, as most senior officials were not well-versed in the case and refrained from commenting on the unprecedented situation. However, there was sympathy and understanding from high levels, including President Michel, who faced harsh personal attacks earlier in the year when he announced his early resignation to run for European election lists. García emphasizes that Sánchez’s promises of democratic regeneration and focus on combating defamation and disinformation should extend beyond Spain. The discussion on polarization is crucial but also delicate, as it directly impacts freedom of information. The EU institutions have been working to strengthen measures to ensure the right to information, such as the media freedom law and the directive against abusive lawsuits used to silence journalists and defenders of civil rights.
The issue of disinformation and polarization is not limited to Spain but is a broader threat to the European discourse posed by populism and the far right. Instances of harassment of activists for sexual and reproductive rights through numerous legal actions by far-right organizations across Europe highlight the need for continued vigilance and defense of information freedom. The close proximity of these challenges makes it even more imperative for the European social democracy to advocate for democratic values, equality, and integrity in public life. The focus now shifts to Sánchez’s leadership in navigating these complex political waters and shaping a progressive direction for the EU.
