Political crisis in Spain: the dilemma of the monarchy and its uncertain future

In recent days, the debate about the role of the monarchy in Spain has intensified, driven by the actions and decisions of King Felipe VI amidst the political crisis the country is facing. As tensions rise between different sectors of the political landscape, the monarch seems to have found in this situation an opportunity to reinforce his position and that of the institution he represents. This strategy has sparked a series of reflections on the future of democracy and the legitimacy of the monarchy in a context where the republican cause, which had gained strength following the abdication of Juan Carlos I, appears to have lost momentum. The current situation could be compared to the days leading up to the 23-F coup attempt in 1981, when the monarchy consolidated itself in a moment of crisis and distrust towards politicians. However, what is concerning now is that, unlike what happened in the past, Felipe VI is not facing coup plotters or nostalgic supporters of Francoism, but rather the politicians themselves from across the parliamentary spectrum. This presents a critical dilemma: the legitimacy of the monarchy is now built not on the defense of democracy but in opposition to democratic politics itself. Adding to this is the perception that the monarchy, rather than being a representative of a democratic system, is steering toward the defense of the dynasty. Felipe VI, unlike his father, does not present himself as a defender of democratic values but as a leader focused on the preservation of his lineage. The history of Spain's democratic transition has been interpreted as a pact in which the monarchy benefited from the establishment of a democratic regime, but the motivations behind this pact have been questioned, at least in part. The sense of crisis felt in democratic institutions today is palpable. The fatigue of the parliamentary system, coupled with a rise in neofascist movements in various parts of the world, creates tension between the perception that authoritarianism presents itself as a viable solution and the frustration of citizens towards a system they consider ineffective. In this context, Felipe VI's role becomes more complex, as the stability of the monarchy will depend on his ability to navigate these turbulent waters. The concern among the king's advisors for the stability of the monarchy is not unfounded; rumors of discontent among sectors of the right, traditionally aligned with the Royal House, are beginning to emerge. These critical voices, which are starting to question the figure of the king, could reflect a change in public perception regarding the utility of the monarchy in times of crisis. The comparison of Felipe VI with historical figures such as Alfonso XIII and Miguel Primo de Rivera is not accidental, as it evokes a latent fear about the future of the institution and its relationship with politics. History has taught us that dynasties have survived over the centuries, but that does not mean they are safe from crises. Felipe VI faces a dilemma similar to the one his father encountered: how far is he willing to go to preserve the monarchy? The lesson learned by Juan Carlos might be that loyalty to the dynasty should prevail over loyalty to democracy. In this sense, the current king might choose to distance himself from politics and let the system self-destruct to ensure his own survival. However, those who defend democracy must be cautious and not make things easier for the monarch. Recent history has shown that when politics and monarchy intertwine dangerously, the consequences can be devastating for the democratic health of a country. The monarchy's intervention in politics should not be a resource that is routinely resorted to, and citizens must remain vigilant against such maneuvers. The future of the monarchy in Spain is at stake, and the events of the coming months will be crucial. The response of citizens, their capacity for mobilization, and their willingness to defend democratic principles will be decisive in ensuring that history does not repeat itself in a way that endangers the democratic achievements made. The legibility of the monarchy within the framework of a healthy democracy is a matter that concerns us all, and it is a challenge that we must not allow to blur amid political confusion.