The monarchy of Felipe VI improves its image amid institutional crisis in Spain.

As the year 2025 progresses, a survey conducted by SocioMétrica for EL ESPAÑOL reveals a notable change in the perception of the Spanish Monarchy under the reign of Felipe VI compared to that of his father, Juan Carlos I, in the year 2000. According to the data, 53.1% of respondents believe that the image of the Crown has improved over time. This change in perception occurs in a complex political and social context, where the Monarchy has had to navigate various crises and challenges. Felipe VI's reign has been marked by significant events that have tested the stability of the institution. From the emergence of new political forces such as Podemos and Vox to the Catalonia crisis that erupted with the 1-O referendum, the Monarchy has had to adapt to a changing landscape. The King’s speech, defending constitutional values after the separatist attempt, was a key point in his effort to consolidate the image of the Crown. This was compounded by the controversy surrounding Juan Carlos I, which culminated in his departure to Abu Dhabi in 2020, following a series of scandals that damaged the monarchy's image. Revelations about his elephant hunting in Botswana and the recent investigation into his hidden fortune in tax havens led the Royal House into a credibility crisis that Felipe VI had to manage with a firm hand. The response to these challenges has been greater transparency in the actions of the Monarchy, an effort that seems to have borne fruit. The publication of received gifts and the annual accountability report are measures that have helped improve public perception. In fact, Spaniards seem to value the Monarchy not only as a symbol of tradition but also as a guarantor of stability in times of political uncertainty. The survey also reveals significant differences in the perception of the Monarchy based on the political affiliation of respondents. Voters from the Popular Party (PP) are the most enthusiastic about the Crown, with 67.7% believing it has improved. In contrast, voters from nationalist and independentist parties are the most critical, with 62.5% thinking that the popularity of the Monarchy has declined. The differences are not only evident in the political sphere but also across gender and age. However, the overall evaluation of the Monarchy presents a consensus among men and women, as well as across various ages. This suggests that Felipe VI's image has managed to resonate beyond traditional divisions in Spanish society. Despite the improvement in the perception of the Monarchy, the barometer also reflects widespread discontent with other institutions in the country. Of the 17 organizations evaluated, only five received a passing grade, with the Monarchy being the highest rated at an average of 6.3. In comparison, institutions such as political parties and the Legislative Power received alarmingly low ratings, highlighting a crisis of confidence in the Spanish political system. It is noteworthy that while the Monarchy scores a 6.3, the current Government stands at a concerning 2.6, underscoring the perception that, despite its own challenges, the Crown has managed to improve its image in a climate of institutional crisis. The lack of trust in other organizations may be driving Spaniards to view the Monarchy as a more stable alternative in a volatile environment. At a time when Spanish politics faces fractures and polarization, Felipe VI's Monarchy seems to have found a path toward recovering its prestige. This raises questions about the future of the institution and its role in Spanish politics, as well as in the daily lives of citizens. The perception of the Monarchy as a pillar of stability could translate into more enduring support as the country navigates increasingly turbulent waters. In conclusion, the improvement in the perception of Felipe VI’s Monarchy is a phenomenon that can be analyzed not only in terms of popularity but also in the context of a country seeking stability and continuity amid uncertainty. The evolution of the institution over the last decade may serve as an indicator of how Spaniards value the Monarchy at a time when trust in other institutions is in question.