The Spanish government's failure to adhere to the timeline established by the Democratic Memory Law has left many aspects of art restitution unresolved. This law, enacted in October 2022, was designed to address the injustices of the Franco regime by recognizing the rights of victims of economic repression, including the seizure of private property, specifically artwork. Yet, as of October 2023, no new audits have been reported beyond what the Ministry of Culture has done, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in the restitution process.

During the Spanish Civil War and the subsequent dictatorship, countless artworks were confiscated from their rightful owners. The hope of recovering these pieces faded over the years as they became lost within state institutions, museums, and private collections. The Democratic Memory Law aimed to revive efforts to locate and return these artworks to their rightful owners or their heirs, significantly extending the definition of victimhood to include economic loss due to state actions.

The continued inaction on the part of the government not only undermines the objectives of the Democratic Memory Law but also reflects broader issues related to the legacy of the Francoist regime. The law's failure in implementation can hinder healing processes for victims and their families and stall efforts to address historical injustices in Spain. As public scrutiny continues, the expectation remains that the government will take decisive action to fulfill its commitments towards preserving historical memory and cultural heritage.