Spanish Politics and European Integration: 1978-2004
Spain’s Transition to Democracy and European Integration
Following the adoption of the 1978 Constitution, elections were held in 1979, with results similar to those of 1977. The UCD government continued with Adolfo Suárez as Prime Minister. Suárez faced a difficult situation, including an economic crisis with a sharp increase in unemployment, major parliamentary opposition led by the PSOE, and increasing ETA terrorism, which reached its peak of activity, especially attacking the armed forces, who were very critical of the government. There were also internal rivalries within the UCD.
Suárez’s Resignation and the 23-F Coup Attempt
Given this situation, Suárez resigned in January 1981, amidst a political crisis that increased the danger of a military coup. This coup attempt occurred on February 23, 1981 (23-F), with the most notable event being the seizure of the Cortes Generales by Civil Guard Lieutenant Colonel Tejero. The aim was to establish a military government, abolish the democratic system, and eliminate nationalist and leftist policies. After the failed coup, Leopoldo Calvo-Sotelo presided over a new UCD government that failed to stabilize the economic or political situation. During this time, there was a scandal over mass poisoning by adulterated rapeseed oil and pressure from the Church regarding the Divorce Act. One of the government’s last steps was the integration of Spain into NATO.
The PSOE Era: Felipe González’s Governments (1982-1996)
Due to the UCD’s internal crisis, early elections were held in October 1982, resulting in an absolute majority for the PSOE. The People’s Alliance (AP) became the main opposition party. Felipe González served as president during four socialist governments from 1982 to 1996.
First Term (1982-1986)
In his first term, González implemented a tough economic stabilization plan, including the industrial conversion of the iron and steel sectors. Reforms included downsizing the Armed Forces and legalizing conscientious objection. Socially, education became free and compulsory up to the age of 16, public funding was provided for private schools, and abortion was decriminalized in certain cases.
In foreign policy, Spain joined the European Union on January 1, 1986, and a referendum was held on Spain’s continued membership in NATO.
Second Term (1986-1990)
In his second term, with an absolute majority, González launched a wide-ranging public investment policy, aided by European funds and significant tax revenue. The liberalization of the labor market led to a general strike that paralyzed the country.
Third Term (1990-1993)
The following four years, again with an absolute majority, albeit with a loss of votes, were marked by two major events: the International Exposition in Seville and the Barcelona Olympic Games, both in 1992. These events were followed by a major economic crisis and the emergence of the first political corruption scandals.
Fourth Term (1993-1996)
In his fourth term, González lost his absolute majority and governed with the support of Convergence and Union (CiU). This period was marked by corruption scandals. In May 1996, the loss of CiU’s support forced him to call early elections.
The PP Era: José María Aznar’s Governments (1996-2004)
In the 1996 elections, the People’s Party (PP), heir to the AP and led by José María Aznar since 1989, won by a narrow margin. Only in Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha, and Extremadura did the PSOE achieve victory. Aznar initiated a neoliberal policy, including the privatization of public enterprises, reducing unemployment and public spending, and ending compulsory military service. Spain met the European criteria of the Maastricht Treaty for entry into the Eurozone, and the Euro began circulating in January 2002. This policy, however, increased the unequal distribution of income.
In 2000, the PP won the elections again, this time with an absolute majority. During this term, several events generated enormous opposition and criticism: the adoption of the Organic Law of Universities (LOU), the Prestige oil spill, and especially the decision to align with the Bush administration in the Iraq War, contrary to the opinion of most of the European Union.
José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero’s Election (2004)
On March 14, 2004, just days after the worst terrorist attack in Spain’s history in Madrid (11-M), the PSOE won the elections, and José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero became president.