UN Condemns Franco’s Regime in Spain: 1946 Resolution
UN Condemnation of Franco’s Regime: 1946
Nature of the Document
This political document is a condemnation of the Franco regime, authored by the United Nations (UN). The UN, an institution created at the end of World War II, aimed to articulate the purpose of peace and international relations, similar to the League of Nations. This resolution is of general purpose, issued to all members of the United Nations, with a particular focus on the regime of General Franco. The document is dated 1946, one year after the Allied victory in World War II.
Key Points of the Resolution
- Cataloging the Regime: The document begins by categorizing the Franco regime as fascist, highlighting its characteristics and, notably, the assistance it received from both Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy to forcibly implement its rule over the Spanish people.
- Franco’s Support for the Axis Powers: The document acknowledges Franco’s assistance to the defeated Axis powers in World War II, Germany and Italy.
- Recommended Actions: The General Assembly recommended the isolation of the Franco regime and its exclusion from international organizations created by the UN until the establishment of a democratic government in Spain.
- Urgency for Resolution: The document conveys a sense of urgency, indicating a desire to resolve the situation promptly and leaving open the possibility of implementing further measures if necessary.
- Withdrawal of Ambassadors: The document concludes with an appeal by the General Assembly for the withdrawal of ambassadors and plenipotentiary ministers accredited to Madrid.
Impact on Franco’s Regime
The effects of this document were significant for the Franco regime. Following its publication, Spain was subjected to international isolation and unanimous condemnation by UN members. This had profound repercussions within the country, affecting it politically, economically, and socially.
Consequences for Post-War Spain
This decision ushered in a period of great hardship in post-war Spain, with severe consequences for Spanish society. Spain did not reach the per capita income it had in 1931 until almost the end of the 1950s. The country’s isolation meant it was ineligible for American aid intended for European reconstruction, leading to the imposition of an autarkic economic system that proved to be a complete failure. This period was marked by serious deficiencies for Spanish society.
Political Repercussions and the Cold War
From a political perspective, the objectives set by the United Nations General Assembly were not initially achieved. The onset of the Cold War brought an end to the isolation experienced by General Franco’s regime. However, the UN resolution forced a political reassessment by Franco, who gradually and slowly moved away from fascist structures, such as the fascist salute, and removed the most radical Falangist elements from power. This did not signify a liberalization of attitudes toward a democratic regime. Instead, General Franco institutionalized a political system largely based on his personal and lifelong dictatorship.
End of Isolation
In the early 1950s, with the signing of agreements, international isolation ended, and the regime gained recognition at the UN.