Spain's largest judges' association has expressed concern to the EU about the perceived decline in the rule of law and judicial independence in the country.
The Asociación Profesional de la Magistratura (APM), Spain's primary judges' association, has raised alarms with the European Union regarding what it perceives as a significant deterioration of the rule of law in Spain. The organization highlighted increasing issues related to the institutional climate and the public's growing skepticism about judicial independence. This intervention was made during a meeting with the European Parliament's Group on Democracy, the Rule of Law, and Fundamental Rights, where they aimed to present their assessment of the state of Spanish justice in 2025.
Critically, the APM's statement points to several distressing trends, including a deteriorating climate for judicial operations and a concerning public perception of justice in Spain. They specifically referred to the condemnation of the former Chief Prosecutor of Spain as emblematic of the issues at hand. The association's conservative leaning influences its stance, raising questions about political pressures and the potential implications for judicial impartiality.
This development unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing debates within Spain regarding judicial reforms and political accountability. The APM's proactive approach with European authorities indicates a recognition of the intricate dynamics between national justice systems and overarching European standards for democracy and the rule of law. As the EU continues to scrutinize member states enforcing democratic norms, the situation in Spain may attract greater attention and further discussions on how to uphold judicial integrity in the face of political challenges.
