From 2012 to 2024, Spain’s CPI scores have shown a worrying decline, highlighting significant challenges in public sector integrity. The CPI, which assesses corruption in 180 countries, has seen Spain’s scores drop from 65 in 2012 to a low of 56 in 2024.
The decline, with only brief improvements in 2019 and 2020 at 62, mirrors broader corruption issues faced globally. Particularly in countries requiring climate finance. Governance problems persist, and the fossil fuel industry’s influence hampers wealthy nations’ climate efforts. With over two-thirds of countries scoring below 50 and the global average stagnant at 43. Corruption remains a critical issue, impacting courts and justice institutions worldwide.
Amidst this backdrop, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces a political crisis as corruption probes into his family and party members threaten his government.
Political scientist Lluís Orriols describes this as a critical juncture for Sánchez, with previous successes now overshadowed by precarious circumstances. Three key investigations target Sánchez’s close ones: his wife, Begoña Gómez, for allegedly misusing her position and appropriating university software, and his brother, David Sánchez, for irregularities in his hiring. Far-right group Manos Limpias initiated these probes, perceived as attempts to undermine Sánchez’s administration. Finance Minister María Jesús Montero defends Sánchez, arguing the attacks aim to dehumanize him. In April, Sánchez threatened to resign over what he saw as false accusations.
The involvement of businessman Víctor de Aldama in alleged bribery for public contracts adds further turmoil, implicating former transport minister José Luis Ábalos and other prominent Socialists.
Despite Spain’s strong economic performance, corruption-related issues dominate the political landscape. Left-wing Sumar remains supportive, but the coalition’s stability is shaky, with the Catalan party Junts proposing a no-confidence motion against Sánchez for more concessions.
Budget negotiations are crucial, with Sánchez’s majority at risk if the budget fails.
Former coalition partner Podemos demands radical measures, adding to Sánchez’s challenges. A power collapse in parliament looms, making the budget the ultimate test of his leadership.