by Shelby Vcelka

Impunity Watch Desk Reporter, Europe

MADRID, Spain–

During his annual Christmas Eve speech, King Felipe VI of Spain appealed for open communication and national unity after an indecisive general election during the previous weekend. King Felipe stated his desire that the nation would show “understanding and a fraternal spirit, which are typical of this season, always be present among us.” The elections showcased two new national parties, the anti-auterity Podemos, and the center-right Ciudadanos, which both made substantial gains in Parliament. The addition of these parties effectively ended the dominant two party systems that had been in place for over thirty years.

King Felipe VI of Spain during his annual Christmas Eve address. During this year’s address, he called for national unity and patience while Spain determines which party will lead its Parliament. (Courtesy of The Guardian).

The elections resulted in a profoundly divided Parliament, with no party enjoying an outright majority, or by great enough margins to allow that party to rule alone. Already, party leaders have begun the process of negotiations to form coalition governments. The process is expected to take several weeks, or even months.

In his address, the King commented, “Political plurality, expressed at the ballot box, without a doubt offers different sensitivities, visions and perspectives; and it involves a way of exercising politics based on dialogue, consensus and commitment. Now, what should matter to all, first and foremost, is Spain and the general interest of the Spanish people.”

The King also appealed to the people for Spain to remain a unified state, as he spoke of “national cohesion.” Recently, the separatist movement in the Spanish state of Catalonia has gained traction, with many people calling for the state to receive recognition as an independent state. “I sincerely believe that we are living today in times where it is more necessary than ever to recognize everything that unites us,” King Felipe said.

When Parliament reconvenes in January, King Felipe will ask the coalition party with the most members to form a government. If, by that time, no coalition party has been determined, the individual parties have two months to hold negotiations. After that time period, if there is still no government, fresh elections will be held.

For more information, please see– 

WSWS.org– Spanish political system in turmoil over hung parliament— 23 December 2015

The Guardian– Spain’s King Felipe calls for country to unite after election uncertainty— 24 December 2015

BBC– Spain elections: King Felipe calls for national unity— 25 December 2015

Euronews–Philip VI’s call for national unity heard loud and clear by Basques & Catalans— 25 December 2015

Author: Impunity Watch Archive