| SPAIN Kingdom of Spain Reino de Espana Joined United Nations: 14 December 1955 Human Rights as assured by their constitution Click here Updated 10/07/10 |
| CAPITAL |
| POPULATION |
| CHIEF OF STATE |
| SELECTION PROCESS |
Madrid
40,525,002 (July 2010 est.)
Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero
President of the Government and Prime Minister
since 17 April 2004
President of the Government and Prime Minister
since 17 April 2004
The monarchy is hereditary; the heir apparent is the eldest child of the monarch
Next scheduled election: None
Next scheduled election: None
HEAD OF GOVERNMENT
SELECTION PROCESS
Following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or the leader of the majority coalition is
usually proposed president by the monarch and elected by the National Assembly; election last held 9
and 11 April 2008; vice presidents appointed by the monarch on the proposal of the president
Next scheduled election: March 2012
usually proposed president by the monarch and elected by the National Assembly; election last held 9
and 11 April 2008; vice presidents appointed by the monarch on the proposal of the president
Next scheduled election: March 2012
| DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS |
| ETHNIC GROUPS |
Composite of Mediterranean and Nordic types
| RELIGIONS |
Roman Catholic 94%, other 6%
| GOVERNMENT STRUCTURE |
Parliamentary monarchy with 7 autonomous communities (comunidades autonomas, singular - comunidad autonoma) and 2 autonomous
cities (ciudades autonomas, singular - ciudad autonoma);; Legal system is a civil law system, with regional applications; accepts
compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations
Executive: The monarchy is hereditary; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or the leader of the majority coalition
is usually proposed president by the monarch and elected by the National Assembly; election last held on 9 and 11 April 2008 (next to be
held in March 2012); vice presidents appointed by the monarch on the proposal of the president
Legislative: Bicameral; General Courts or National Assembly or Las Cortes Generales consists of the Senate or Senado (259
seats; 208 members directly elected by popular vote and the other 51 appointed by the regional legislatures; to serve four-year
terms) and the Congress of Deputies or Congreso de los Diputados (350 seats; members are elected by popular vote on block lists
by proportional representation to serve four-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held on 9 March 2008 (next to be held in March 2012); Congress of Deputies - last held on 9 March 2008
(next to be held in March 2012)
Judicial: Supreme Court or Tribunal Supremo
cities (ciudades autonomas, singular - ciudad autonoma);; Legal system is a civil law system, with regional applications; accepts
compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations
Executive: The monarchy is hereditary; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or the leader of the majority coalition
is usually proposed president by the monarch and elected by the National Assembly; election last held on 9 and 11 April 2008 (next to be
held in March 2012); vice presidents appointed by the monarch on the proposal of the president
Legislative: Bicameral; General Courts or National Assembly or Las Cortes Generales consists of the Senate or Senado (259
seats; 208 members directly elected by popular vote and the other 51 appointed by the regional legislatures; to serve four-year
terms) and the Congress of Deputies or Congreso de los Diputados (350 seats; members are elected by popular vote on block lists
by proportional representation to serve four-year terms)
elections: Senate - last held on 9 March 2008 (next to be held in March 2012); Congress of Deputies - last held on 9 March 2008
(next to be held in March 2012)
Judicial: Supreme Court or Tribunal Supremo
| LANGUAGES |
Castilian Spanish (official) 74%, Catalan 17%, Galician 7%, Basque 2%, are official regionally
| BRIEF HISTORY |
The history of Spain spans the period from pre-historic times, through the rise and fall of the first global empire, to Spain's
modern-day renaissance in the post-Franco era. Modern humans entered the Iberian Peninsula, from the north, in excess of 35 000
years ago. Waves of invaders and colonizers followed over the millennia, including the Celts, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and
Greeks, and by about 200 B.C., the area was controlled by the Roman Empire. Roman control was followed by the Visigoths, and
in 711, the North African Muslims (or Moors) began arriving. During the next 750 years, independent Muslim states were
established, and the entire area of Muslim control became known as Al-Andalus. Most of this period also saw what became known
as the Reconquista, the Christian re-conquest of Spain, which advanced southward, concluding in 1492 with the fall of Moorish
Granada. During this period Christian kingdoms and principalities developed, including the Kingdom of Castile and the Kingdom of
Aragon. The union of these two kingdoms led to the creation of the Kingdom of Spain. The year 1492 also saw the
accomplishments of Christopher Columbus in the New World, beginning the development of the Spanish Empire. The next several
centuries saw Spain as a colonial power become the most important European nation on the global stage. Spanish literature and fine
arts flourished during this time; the period was, however, marred by the expulsion of the Jews and Muslims, the Inquisition, and the
treatment of Indigenous peoples during the colonization of the Americas. Over the next few centuries, Spain's empire in the New
World would stretch from California to Patagonia. Financed in substantial part by the riches pouring in from its colonies, Spain
became embroiled in wars and intrigues in continental Europe, including, for example, obtaining and losing possessions in today's
Netherlands and Italy, and engaging in wars with England (including the sea battle involving the famous Spanish Armada) and
France. The dynastic family of the Habsburgs took control of the Spanish throne, followed by the crown being worn by the
Bourbon family. Spain's European adventures led, however, to successive bankruptcies, and reduced Spain to a second-tier
European power by the end of the 18th century. The early part of the nineteenth century saw the independence of almost all the
Spanish colonies in the New World. The century was also marked by foreign intervention and internal conflicts. Napoleon placed
his brother on the Spanish throne, but with the expulsion of the French, Spain entered into an extended period of unrest. Similar to
events in other parts of Europe, much of the 19th century was series of struggles among elites, as well as struggles between elites
and newly-empowered republican and liberal forces. The arrival of the Industrial Revolution, late in the century, brought wealth to
an expanding middle class in some major centres, however the Spanish-American War at the end of the 19th century led to the loss
of almost all of Spain's remaining colonies. Despite a rising standard of living and increasing integration with the rest of Europe, the
first third of the 20th century continued the political turmoil. Spain remained neutral during the First World War, however, by 1936
Spain was plunged into a bloody civil war which by some accounts cost 1,000,000 lives. The war ended in a nationalist
dictatorship, led by Francisco Franco which controlled the Spanish government until 1975. Spain was officially neutral during the
Second World War; the post-war decades were relatively stable (with the notable exception of an armed independence movement
in the Basque Country), and though the country experienced an astonishingly rapid economic surge in the 1960s and early 1970s, it
remained culturally and politically repressed. The death of Franco in 1975 began a remarkable transformation. While tensions
remain (for example, with Muslim immigrants and in the Basque region), modern Spain has seen the development of a robust,
modern democracy (a constitutional monarchy with popular King Juan Carlos), one of the fastest-growing standards of living in
Europe, the flowering of an artistic community (particularly film makers), entry into the European Community, and the 1992 Summer
Olympics. In 2005, Spain became the first nation in the world to grant full marriage and adoption rights to same-sex couples.
Source: Wikipedia: History of Spain
modern-day renaissance in the post-Franco era. Modern humans entered the Iberian Peninsula, from the north, in excess of 35 000
years ago. Waves of invaders and colonizers followed over the millennia, including the Celts, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and
Greeks, and by about 200 B.C., the area was controlled by the Roman Empire. Roman control was followed by the Visigoths, and
in 711, the North African Muslims (or Moors) began arriving. During the next 750 years, independent Muslim states were
established, and the entire area of Muslim control became known as Al-Andalus. Most of this period also saw what became known
as the Reconquista, the Christian re-conquest of Spain, which advanced southward, concluding in 1492 with the fall of Moorish
Granada. During this period Christian kingdoms and principalities developed, including the Kingdom of Castile and the Kingdom of
Aragon. The union of these two kingdoms led to the creation of the Kingdom of Spain. The year 1492 also saw the
accomplishments of Christopher Columbus in the New World, beginning the development of the Spanish Empire. The next several
centuries saw Spain as a colonial power become the most important European nation on the global stage. Spanish literature and fine
arts flourished during this time; the period was, however, marred by the expulsion of the Jews and Muslims, the Inquisition, and the
treatment of Indigenous peoples during the colonization of the Americas. Over the next few centuries, Spain's empire in the New
World would stretch from California to Patagonia. Financed in substantial part by the riches pouring in from its colonies, Spain
became embroiled in wars and intrigues in continental Europe, including, for example, obtaining and losing possessions in today's
Netherlands and Italy, and engaging in wars with England (including the sea battle involving the famous Spanish Armada) and
France. The dynastic family of the Habsburgs took control of the Spanish throne, followed by the crown being worn by the
Bourbon family. Spain's European adventures led, however, to successive bankruptcies, and reduced Spain to a second-tier
European power by the end of the 18th century. The early part of the nineteenth century saw the independence of almost all the
Spanish colonies in the New World. The century was also marked by foreign intervention and internal conflicts. Napoleon placed
his brother on the Spanish throne, but with the expulsion of the French, Spain entered into an extended period of unrest. Similar to
events in other parts of Europe, much of the 19th century was series of struggles among elites, as well as struggles between elites
and newly-empowered republican and liberal forces. The arrival of the Industrial Revolution, late in the century, brought wealth to
an expanding middle class in some major centres, however the Spanish-American War at the end of the 19th century led to the loss
of almost all of Spain's remaining colonies. Despite a rising standard of living and increasing integration with the rest of Europe, the
first third of the 20th century continued the political turmoil. Spain remained neutral during the First World War, however, by 1936
Spain was plunged into a bloody civil war which by some accounts cost 1,000,000 lives. The war ended in a nationalist
dictatorship, led by Francisco Franco which controlled the Spanish government until 1975. Spain was officially neutral during the
Second World War; the post-war decades were relatively stable (with the notable exception of an armed independence movement
in the Basque Country), and though the country experienced an astonishingly rapid economic surge in the 1960s and early 1970s, it
remained culturally and politically repressed. The death of Franco in 1975 began a remarkable transformation. While tensions
remain (for example, with Muslim immigrants and in the Basque region), modern Spain has seen the development of a robust,
modern democracy (a constitutional monarchy with popular King Juan Carlos), one of the fastest-growing standards of living in
Europe, the flowering of an artistic community (particularly film makers), entry into the European Community, and the 1992 Summer
Olympics. In 2005, Spain became the first nation in the world to grant full marriage and adoption rights to same-sex couples.
Source: Wikipedia: History of Spain
| ECONOMIC OVERVIEW |
Spain's mixed capitalist economy is the 12th largest in the world, and its per capita income roughly matches that of Germany and
France. However, after almost 15 years of above average GDP growth, the Spanish economy began to slow in late 2007 and
entered into a recession in the second quarter of 2008. Spain's unemployment rate rose from a low of about 8% in 2007 to more
than 19% in December 2009 and continues to rise. Its fiscal deficit worsened from 3.8% of GDP in 2008 to about 7.9% of GDP in
2009, more than double the EMU limit. GDP contracted by 3.6% from 2008, ending a 16-year growth trend. The economy is
projected to resume modest growth sometime in 2010, making Spain the last major economy to emerge from the global recession.
The reversal in Spain's economic growth reflects a significant decline in the construction sector, an oversupply of housing, falling
consumer spending, and slumping exports. Government efforts to boost the economy through stimulus spending, extended
unemployment benefits, and loan guarantees have not prevented a sharp rise in the unemployment rate, which was the highest in the
EU in 2009. Spain's banking sector has been relatively insulated from the global financial crisis, due in part to conservative oversight
by the Bank of Spain. Government intervention to rescue banks on the scale seen elsewhere in Europe in 2008 and 2009 was not
necessary in Spain, although Spanish banks' high exposure to the collapsed domestic construction and real estate market poses
continued risks for the sector. The government intervened in one regional savings bank in 2009, and others have merged out of
necessity.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Spain)
France. However, after almost 15 years of above average GDP growth, the Spanish economy began to slow in late 2007 and
entered into a recession in the second quarter of 2008. Spain's unemployment rate rose from a low of about 8% in 2007 to more
than 19% in December 2009 and continues to rise. Its fiscal deficit worsened from 3.8% of GDP in 2008 to about 7.9% of GDP in
2009, more than double the EMU limit. GDP contracted by 3.6% from 2008, ending a 16-year growth trend. The economy is
projected to resume modest growth sometime in 2010, making Spain the last major economy to emerge from the global recession.
The reversal in Spain's economic growth reflects a significant decline in the construction sector, an oversupply of housing, falling
consumer spending, and slumping exports. Government efforts to boost the economy through stimulus spending, extended
unemployment benefits, and loan guarantees have not prevented a sharp rise in the unemployment rate, which was the highest in the
EU in 2009. Spain's banking sector has been relatively insulated from the global financial crisis, due in part to conservative oversight
by the Bank of Spain. Government intervention to rescue banks on the scale seen elsewhere in Europe in 2008 and 2009 was not
necessary in Spain, although Spanish banks' high exposure to the collapsed domestic construction and real estate market poses
continued risks for the sector. The government intervened in one regional savings bank in 2009, and others have merged out of
necessity.
Source: CIA World Factbook (select Spain)
| POLITICAL CLIMATE |
In order to understand the political forces and debates in Spain we have to consider two dimensions: the Right vs. Left dimension
and the Nation State vs. Plurinational State dimension. The political parties' agendas and the individual citizens' opinions can only be
understood when looked at on both dimensions. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Spain states that 1) it is a Nation and 2) that it
is formed by Nationalities and Regions. This statement is a contradiction (since Nationality and Nation essentially mean the same
thing in political theory), but it was an agreement that struck a balance between the political parties advocating the nation state and
those advocating the plurinational state. The territorial organization of Spain into Autonomous Communities of Spain is the
administrative realization of this constitutional balancing act.
Historically, parties advocating the Nation State claim that there is only one Nation and favour a state with a centralised government
(with some degree of regional decentralization). Nationalist Catalan, Basque and Galician political parties claim to represent their
respective 'nations', different from the Spanish Nation. These political parties share the belief that the Kingdom of Spain is a state
formed by four 'nations', namely the Catalan nation, the Basque nation, the Galician nation and what might be called the
Castilian-Spanish nation (for lack of better word, since they would simply call it Spain). Some of these parties often mention
Switzerland as a model of Plurinational State shared by German, French, and Italian nationalities, while others advocate
independence. Notice that these nations/nationalities are related to, but different from the current administrative borders of the
Autonomous Communities of Spain.
In the 2008 general elections, Prime Minister Zapatero and the PSOE got reelected by a plurality, short of a majority. He was
elected Prime Minister April 11 by 169 votes to 158, with 23 abstaining. The Economic crisis of 2008 took a heavy toll on
economy in the following months.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Spain
and the Nation State vs. Plurinational State dimension. The political parties' agendas and the individual citizens' opinions can only be
understood when looked at on both dimensions. The Constitution of the Kingdom of Spain states that 1) it is a Nation and 2) that it
is formed by Nationalities and Regions. This statement is a contradiction (since Nationality and Nation essentially mean the same
thing in political theory), but it was an agreement that struck a balance between the political parties advocating the nation state and
those advocating the plurinational state. The territorial organization of Spain into Autonomous Communities of Spain is the
administrative realization of this constitutional balancing act.
Historically, parties advocating the Nation State claim that there is only one Nation and favour a state with a centralised government
(with some degree of regional decentralization). Nationalist Catalan, Basque and Galician political parties claim to represent their
respective 'nations', different from the Spanish Nation. These political parties share the belief that the Kingdom of Spain is a state
formed by four 'nations', namely the Catalan nation, the Basque nation, the Galician nation and what might be called the
Castilian-Spanish nation (for lack of better word, since they would simply call it Spain). Some of these parties often mention
Switzerland as a model of Plurinational State shared by German, French, and Italian nationalities, while others advocate
independence. Notice that these nations/nationalities are related to, but different from the current administrative borders of the
Autonomous Communities of Spain.
In the 2008 general elections, Prime Minister Zapatero and the PSOE got reelected by a plurality, short of a majority. He was
elected Prime Minister April 11 by 169 votes to 158, with 23 abstaining. The Economic crisis of 2008 took a heavy toll on
economy in the following months.
Source: Wikipedia: Politics of Spain
| INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES |
In 2002, Gibraltar residents voted overwhelmingly by referendum to reject any "shared sovereignty" arrangement; the government of
Gibraltar insists on equal participation in talks between the UK and Spain; Spain disapproves of UK plans to grant Gibraltar greater
autonomy; Morocco protests Spain's control over the coastal enclaves of Ceuta, Melilla, and the islands of Penon de Velez de la
Gomera, Penon de Alhucemas, and Islas Chafarinas, and surrounding waters; both countries claim Isla Perejil (Leila Island);
Morocco serves as the primary launching site of illegal migration into Spain from North Africa; Portugal does not recognize Spanish
sovereignty over the territory of Olivenza based on a difference of interpretation of the 1815 Congress of Vienna and the 1801
Treaty of Badajoz
Gibraltar insists on equal participation in talks between the UK and Spain; Spain disapproves of UK plans to grant Gibraltar greater
autonomy; Morocco protests Spain's control over the coastal enclaves of Ceuta, Melilla, and the islands of Penon de Velez de la
Gomera, Penon de Alhucemas, and Islas Chafarinas, and surrounding waters; both countries claim Isla Perejil (Leila Island);
Morocco serves as the primary launching site of illegal migration into Spain from North Africa; Portugal does not recognize Spanish
sovereignty over the territory of Olivenza based on a difference of interpretation of the 1815 Congress of Vienna and the 1801
Treaty of Badajoz
| REFUGEES AND INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPS) |
None reported.
| ILLICIT DRUGS |
Despite rigorous law enforcement efforts, North African, Latin American, Galician, and other European traffickers take
advantage of Spain's long coastline to land large shipments of cocaine and hashish for distribution to the European market;
consumer for Latin American cocaine and North African hashish; destination and minor transshipment point for Southwest Asian
heroin; money-laundering site for Colombian narcotics trafficking organizations and organized crime.
advantage of Spain's long coastline to land large shipments of cocaine and hashish for distribution to the European market;
consumer for Latin American cocaine and North African hashish; destination and minor transshipment point for Southwest Asian
heroin; money-laundering site for Colombian narcotics trafficking organizations and organized crime.
| HUMAN RIGHTS STATEMENTS, ANALYSIS AND CRITIQUES |
2009 Human Rights Report: Spain
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Kingdom of Spain, with a population of approximately 46.6 million, is a parliamentary democracy headed by a constitutional
monarch. The country has a bicameral parliament, the General Courts or National Assembly, consisting of the Congress of Deputies
(lower house) and the Senate (upper house). The head of the largest political party or coalition is usually named to head the government
as president. The national election held in March 2008 was free and fair. The Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE) won the
multiparty election, and Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero was reelected president. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control
of the security forces.
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
2009 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
March 11, 2010
The Kingdom of Spain, with a population of approximately 46.6 million, is a parliamentary democracy headed by a constitutional
monarch. The country has a bicameral parliament, the General Courts or National Assembly, consisting of the Congress of Deputies
(lower house) and the Senate (upper house). The head of the largest political party or coalition is usually named to head the government
as president. The national election held in March 2008 was free and fair. The Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE) won the
multiparty election, and Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero was reelected president. Civilian authorities generally maintained effective control
of the security forces.
- There were some reports of security forces abusing suspects and mistreating migrant children in detention centers, and
authorities delayed legal assistance and the arraignment of arrested persons before a judge. - In 2007 the terrorist group Basque Fatherland and Liberty (ETA) declared an end to its 2006 "permanent ceasefire" and continued
its terrorist campaign of bombings. During the year the ETA was responsible for three deaths. - Jewish groups reported isolated acts of vandalism and anti-Semitism, Muslim groups reported some societal discrimination, and
there were incidents of societal violence against other minorities. - Domestic violence and trafficking in persons were also reported.
29 September 2010
Committee on the Rights of the Child
Fifty-fifth session
1 September – 13 October 2010
Consideration of reports submitted by states parties under article 44 of the convention
Concluding Observations: Spain
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the State party’s combined third and fourth periodic report as well as the written
replies to its list of issues (CRC/C/Q/ESP/3-4), which provided a better understanding of the situation in the State party. It expresses
appreciation for the presence of a cross-sectoral delegation as well as the frank and open dialogue with the delegation.
B. Follow-up measures undertaken and progress achieved by the State party
5. The Committee notes with appreciation the positive developments related to the implementation of the Convention, including, in
particular, the adoption of:
(a) The first National Strategic Plan for Children and Adolescents (2006-2009);
(b) The second National Action Plan against Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents (2006-2009);
(c) The Strategic Plan on Citizenship and Integration (2007-2010);
(d) Organic Law of June 2010 amending the Criminal Code, extending the scope of the crime of child pornography and
defining the crime of sexual cyber-harassment; and
(e) Organic Law 11/2003 of 29 September on specific measures relating to public safety, domestic violence and social
integration of foreigners, which defines the crime of female genital mutilation, as well as Organic Law 3/2005 which allows the
extraterritorial prosecution of FGM.
C. Main areas of concern and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation (arts. 4, 42 and 44, para. 6 of the Convention)
Committee’s previous recommendations
7. The Committee welcomes efforts by the State party to implement the Committee’s concluding observations on the State party’s
second report in 2002 (CRC/C/15/Add.185). However, some of the recommendations have not been given sufficient follow up. The
Committee notes that those concerns and recommendations are reiterated in the present document.
8. The Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to address those recommendations from the concluding
observations of the State party’s second periodic report that have not yet been sufficiently implemented, including those related in
particular to: coordination, data collection, discrimination, migrant children, unaccompanied foreign children and children deprived of
liberty. In this context, the Committee draws the attention of the State party to its General Comment No. 5 (2004) on general measures
of implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Click here to read more »
Committee on the Rights of the Child
Fifty-fifth session
1 September – 13 October 2010
Consideration of reports submitted by states parties under article 44 of the convention
Concluding Observations: Spain
A. Introduction
2. The Committee welcomes the submission of the State party’s combined third and fourth periodic report as well as the written
replies to its list of issues (CRC/C/Q/ESP/3-4), which provided a better understanding of the situation in the State party. It expresses
appreciation for the presence of a cross-sectoral delegation as well as the frank and open dialogue with the delegation.
B. Follow-up measures undertaken and progress achieved by the State party
5. The Committee notes with appreciation the positive developments related to the implementation of the Convention, including, in
particular, the adoption of:
(a) The first National Strategic Plan for Children and Adolescents (2006-2009);
(b) The second National Action Plan against Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents (2006-2009);
(c) The Strategic Plan on Citizenship and Integration (2007-2010);
(d) Organic Law of June 2010 amending the Criminal Code, extending the scope of the crime of child pornography and
defining the crime of sexual cyber-harassment; and
(e) Organic Law 11/2003 of 29 September on specific measures relating to public safety, domestic violence and social
integration of foreigners, which defines the crime of female genital mutilation, as well as Organic Law 3/2005 which allows the
extraterritorial prosecution of FGM.
C. Main areas of concern and recommendations
1. General measures of implementation (arts. 4, 42 and 44, para. 6 of the Convention)
Committee’s previous recommendations
7. The Committee welcomes efforts by the State party to implement the Committee’s concluding observations on the State party’s
second report in 2002 (CRC/C/15/Add.185). However, some of the recommendations have not been given sufficient follow up. The
Committee notes that those concerns and recommendations are reiterated in the present document.
8. The Committee urges the State party to take all necessary measures to address those recommendations from the concluding
observations of the State party’s second periodic report that have not yet been sufficiently implemented, including those related in
particular to: coordination, data collection, discrimination, migrant children, unaccompanied foreign children and children deprived of
liberty. In this context, the Committee draws the attention of the State party to its General Comment No. 5 (2004) on general measures
of implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Click here to read more »
Freedom In The World 2010 Report
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Overview
In 2009, government plans to liberalize abortion laws were met with criticism from groups including opposition conservatives and the
Catholic Church. The Basque parliament voted in a non-nationalist government in May for the first time in 30 years, sparking a bombing
spree by the Basque separatist group Euskadi Ta Askatasuna (ETA).
Parliamentary elections held in March 2008 returned the PSOE to power. The PSOE, which had focused on liberal reforms, such as
gender equality and same-sex marriage, won 43.5 percent of the vote in the lower house, followed by the PP, which captured 40.1
percent.
For the first time in 30 years, the Basque Nationalist Party lost its absolute majority in the Basque parliament election in March 2009. The
new coalition of the PSOE and the center-right PP pledged to focus on security and economy and not press for regional autonomy.
ETA carried out at least 17 violent attacks throughout 2009, marking the 50th anniversary of the group’s founding. In June, a senior
police officer was killed in a bomb attack in Bilbao, the capital of the Basque region. The resort island of Majorca was hit with a series of
bombings in July, including an explosion that killed two police officers, the deadliest attack by ETA since 2007. In October, French
authorities arrested two leaders of ETA, including Aitor Elizaran Aguilar, who had allegedly replaced Javier Lopez Pena, a senior ETA
commander captured by French police in 2008.
In September, the government released plans to liberalize abortion laws in Spain, making the procedure “on demand” for the first time in
this primarily Catholic country. The move was met with criticism from the opposition conservatives and the Catholic Church. A massive
anti-abortion protest in mid-October sponsored by 40 religious and civic groups called on the government to repeal the bill. In December,
the bill was passed by the Congress of Deputies, and final approval from the Senate was expected in early 2010.
In October, parliament passed a controversial law that increases the time illegal immigrants can be held before deportation from 40 to 60
days and imposes restrictions on parents joining their immigrant children.
Spain is an electoral democracy. The Congress of Deputies, the lower house of the National Assembly, has 350 members elected from
party lists in provincial constituencies. The Senate has 259 members, with 208 elected directly and 51 chosen by regional legislatures.
Members of both the Senate and Congress serve four-year terms. Following legislative elections, the prime minister, known as the
president of the government, is selected by the monarch and is usually the leader of the majority party or coalition. The candidate must
also be elected by the National Assembly. The country’s 50 provinces are divided into 17 autonomous regions with varying degrees of
power, in addition to the two North African enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
Click here to read more »
Political Rights Score: 1
Civil Liberties Score: 1
Status: Free
Overview
In 2009, government plans to liberalize abortion laws were met with criticism from groups including opposition conservatives and the
Catholic Church. The Basque parliament voted in a non-nationalist government in May for the first time in 30 years, sparking a bombing
spree by the Basque separatist group Euskadi Ta Askatasuna (ETA).
Parliamentary elections held in March 2008 returned the PSOE to power. The PSOE, which had focused on liberal reforms, such as
gender equality and same-sex marriage, won 43.5 percent of the vote in the lower house, followed by the PP, which captured 40.1
percent.
For the first time in 30 years, the Basque Nationalist Party lost its absolute majority in the Basque parliament election in March 2009. The
new coalition of the PSOE and the center-right PP pledged to focus on security and economy and not press for regional autonomy.
ETA carried out at least 17 violent attacks throughout 2009, marking the 50th anniversary of the group’s founding. In June, a senior
police officer was killed in a bomb attack in Bilbao, the capital of the Basque region. The resort island of Majorca was hit with a series of
bombings in July, including an explosion that killed two police officers, the deadliest attack by ETA since 2007. In October, French
authorities arrested two leaders of ETA, including Aitor Elizaran Aguilar, who had allegedly replaced Javier Lopez Pena, a senior ETA
commander captured by French police in 2008.
In September, the government released plans to liberalize abortion laws in Spain, making the procedure “on demand” for the first time in
this primarily Catholic country. The move was met with criticism from the opposition conservatives and the Catholic Church. A massive
anti-abortion protest in mid-October sponsored by 40 religious and civic groups called on the government to repeal the bill. In December,
the bill was passed by the Congress of Deputies, and final approval from the Senate was expected in early 2010.
In October, parliament passed a controversial law that increases the time illegal immigrants can be held before deportation from 40 to 60
days and imposes restrictions on parents joining their immigrant children.
Spain is an electoral democracy. The Congress of Deputies, the lower house of the National Assembly, has 350 members elected from
party lists in provincial constituencies. The Senate has 259 members, with 208 elected directly and 51 chosen by regional legislatures.
Members of both the Senate and Congress serve four-year terms. Following legislative elections, the prime minister, known as the
president of the government, is selected by the monarch and is usually the leader of the majority party or coalition. The candidate must
also be elected by the National Assembly. The country’s 50 provinces are divided into 17 autonomous regions with varying degrees of
power, in addition to the two North African enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
Click here to read more »
1 October 2010
Spain: Amnesty International regrets Spain’s rejection of recommendations to investigate enforced disappearances and its
refusal to review incommunicado detention regime
Human Rights Council adopts Universal Periodic Review outcome on Spain
When Spain reformed its Criminal Code in June 2010,1it failed to align the definition of torture in Article 174 with Article 1 of the
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Recommendations to address this
shortcoming were made during the review.2Amnesty International is disappointed that these recommendations were rejected by Spain.3
In November 2009, in its Concluding Observations on Spain, the Committee against Torture had requested that two important elements
be added to the definition of torture in Article 174 to align it with the Convention: to specify that torture can also be committed by “a
person acting in an official capacity” (in addition to “an authority or public official”) and to add to the purposes of torture in Article 174
“intimidating or coercing the person subjected to torture or a third person”.4Amnesty International urges Spain to act with urgency on
the Committee’s conclusions.
Amnesty International has consistently called on Spain to investigate crimes committed during the civil war (1936-1939) and the Franco
era (1939-1975) and to ensure that no amnesty law is applied to crimes against humanity. The organization also condemns the recent
charges made against the investigating judge for having investigated the forced disappearance of more than 114,000 people between
1936 and 1951.5
Despite ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance in 2009 and reform of
the Spanish Criminal Code in 2010, the Criminal Code still fails to define the crime of enforced disappearance in line with international
law. The prosecution of enforced disappearances remains subject to the application of amnesties and limitation periods. Amnesty
International notes with disappointment that Spain has rejected the recommendation made during the review, to investigate, punish and
redress crimes of enforced disappearance in accordance with international law.6 It urges Spain to reconsider its position on this
important recommendation.
Amnesty International welcomes Spain’s support of recommendations to collect and publish statistics on racially motivated crimes, to
develop a national plan of action against racism and xenophobia, and to intensify efforts to thoroughly investigate acts of racial violence
and punish those responsible.7It is also pleased to note that Spain has indicated its support of additional recommendations to ensure a
time frame for concrete action and other comprehensive measures.8
Amnesty International is extremely disappointed, however, at Spain’s refusal to review its regime of incommunicado detention.
Click here to read more »
Spain: Amnesty International regrets Spain’s rejection of recommendations to investigate enforced disappearances and its
refusal to review incommunicado detention regime
Human Rights Council adopts Universal Periodic Review outcome on Spain
When Spain reformed its Criminal Code in June 2010,1it failed to align the definition of torture in Article 174 with Article 1 of the
Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Recommendations to address this
shortcoming were made during the review.2Amnesty International is disappointed that these recommendations were rejected by Spain.3
In November 2009, in its Concluding Observations on Spain, the Committee against Torture had requested that two important elements
be added to the definition of torture in Article 174 to align it with the Convention: to specify that torture can also be committed by “a
person acting in an official capacity” (in addition to “an authority or public official”) and to add to the purposes of torture in Article 174
“intimidating or coercing the person subjected to torture or a third person”.4Amnesty International urges Spain to act with urgency on
the Committee’s conclusions.
Amnesty International has consistently called on Spain to investigate crimes committed during the civil war (1936-1939) and the Franco
era (1939-1975) and to ensure that no amnesty law is applied to crimes against humanity. The organization also condemns the recent
charges made against the investigating judge for having investigated the forced disappearance of more than 114,000 people between
1936 and 1951.5
Despite ratification of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance in 2009 and reform of
the Spanish Criminal Code in 2010, the Criminal Code still fails to define the crime of enforced disappearance in line with international
law. The prosecution of enforced disappearances remains subject to the application of amnesties and limitation periods. Amnesty
International notes with disappointment that Spain has rejected the recommendation made during the review, to investigate, punish and
redress crimes of enforced disappearance in accordance with international law.6 It urges Spain to reconsider its position on this
important recommendation.
Amnesty International welcomes Spain’s support of recommendations to collect and publish statistics on racially motivated crimes, to
develop a national plan of action against racism and xenophobia, and to intensify efforts to thoroughly investigate acts of racial violence
and punish those responsible.7It is also pleased to note that Spain has indicated its support of additional recommendations to ensure a
time frame for concrete action and other comprehensive measures.8
Amnesty International is extremely disappointed, however, at Spain’s refusal to review its regime of incommunicado detention.
Click here to read more »
Spain: Migrant Children at Risk
Abolish Emergency Regime for Unaccompanied Children in Canary Islands
June 22, 2010
(Geneva) - The Canary Islands government's decision to keep more than 250 unaccompanied migrant children in unregulated emergency
shelters puts the children at risk and threatens their well-being, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today.
The 40-page report, "Eternal Emergency: No End to Unaccompanied Migrant Children's Institutionalization in Canary Islands Emergency
Centers," says that the centers fail to comply with the Canary Islands government's minimum care standards for migrant children and
have no occupancy limits. The approximately 100 children in the biggest and most secluded emergency center, La Esperanza, receive
low-quality food, lack adequate heating, hot water, and blankets, and report frequent violence from other children.
In the wake of this report's publication, the Canary Islands government informed Human Rights Watch orally on June 15 that it plans to
close down La Esperanza emergency center by December 2010 and move children to other centers, including the emergency centers at
Tegueste and Arinaga. It has not committed itself to make those centers subject to its own established minimum standards of care.
"We welcome that the Canary Islands government intends to close the worst of these facilities, where children are at risk," said Simone
Troller, children's rights researcher at Human Rights Watch. "We look forward to seeing that intent translated into a firm plan and
concrete measures to ensure the center is actually closed. At the same time, it should end the emergency regime as a whole and bring all
centers for unaccompanied minors in line with mainstream standards of care."
The emergency centers were established in 2006 as a temporary measure in response to the arrival of an unprecedented number of
unaccompanied migrant children on the Islands.
Human Rights Watch's new findings come three years after it first documented serious allegations of ill-treatment of children in the
centers by staff, overcrowded and substandard infrastructure, violence by older children against younger ones, and lack of oversight by
bodies in charge. The initial findings were published in a June 2007 report, "Unwelcome Responsibilities: Spain's Failure to Protect the
Rights of Unaccompanied Migrant Children in the Canary Islands."
Some conditions have improved since 2007, Human Rights Watch said. Children have access to education and training opportunities
outside their residences, and monitoring visits by institutions charged to oversee conditions appear to be more frequent. Human Rights
Watch found that conditions at Arinaga center in particular had improved, in large part because fewer children are housed there. Human
Rights Watch is concerned that in the absence of careful planning and enforceable standards of care, the transfer of significant numbers
of children from La Esperanza to Arinaga may jeopardize the progress made.
Click here to read more »
Abolish Emergency Regime for Unaccompanied Children in Canary Islands
June 22, 2010
(Geneva) - The Canary Islands government's decision to keep more than 250 unaccompanied migrant children in unregulated emergency
shelters puts the children at risk and threatens their well-being, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today.
The 40-page report, "Eternal Emergency: No End to Unaccompanied Migrant Children's Institutionalization in Canary Islands Emergency
Centers," says that the centers fail to comply with the Canary Islands government's minimum care standards for migrant children and
have no occupancy limits. The approximately 100 children in the biggest and most secluded emergency center, La Esperanza, receive
low-quality food, lack adequate heating, hot water, and blankets, and report frequent violence from other children.
In the wake of this report's publication, the Canary Islands government informed Human Rights Watch orally on June 15 that it plans to
close down La Esperanza emergency center by December 2010 and move children to other centers, including the emergency centers at
Tegueste and Arinaga. It has not committed itself to make those centers subject to its own established minimum standards of care.
"We welcome that the Canary Islands government intends to close the worst of these facilities, where children are at risk," said Simone
Troller, children's rights researcher at Human Rights Watch. "We look forward to seeing that intent translated into a firm plan and
concrete measures to ensure the center is actually closed. At the same time, it should end the emergency regime as a whole and bring all
centers for unaccompanied minors in line with mainstream standards of care."
The emergency centers were established in 2006 as a temporary measure in response to the arrival of an unprecedented number of
unaccompanied migrant children on the Islands.
Human Rights Watch's new findings come three years after it first documented serious allegations of ill-treatment of children in the
centers by staff, overcrowded and substandard infrastructure, violence by older children against younger ones, and lack of oversight by
bodies in charge. The initial findings were published in a June 2007 report, "Unwelcome Responsibilities: Spain's Failure to Protect the
Rights of Unaccompanied Migrant Children in the Canary Islands."
Some conditions have improved since 2007, Human Rights Watch said. Children have access to education and training opportunities
outside their residences, and monitoring visits by institutions charged to oversee conditions appear to be more frequent. Human Rights
Watch found that conditions at Arinaga center in particular had improved, in large part because fewer children are housed there. Human
Rights Watch is concerned that in the absence of careful planning and enforceable standards of care, the transfer of significant numbers
of children from La Esperanza to Arinaga may jeopardize the progress made.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED ROM SPANISH BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
SPAIN IN THE UN FROM APRIL TO JUNE 2010
New York, Thursday July 1, 2010
Deputy Prime Minister Maria Teresa Fernandez de la Vega, met in New York with UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon April 26, the First
Vice Prime Minister Maria Teresa Fernandez de la Vega, met in New York with United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon. Both
agreed that the Alliance of Civilizations has become a successful initiative and discussed issues such as UN reform, the priorities of the
Summit on the Millennium Goals and the situation in Haiti.
Third Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations The Third Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations concluded on 29 May in Rio de Janeiro
renovated with a new global dimension, to integrate Latin American perspectives. "This was the first forum outside the
euro-Mediterranean area, which serves to reaffirm the vocation of the Alliance and gives a global profile," said at the close of the meeting
of the High Representative of the UN initiative, the former Portuguese President Jorge Sampaio.
Turkey and Spain reaffirmed their support for this initiative and welcomed the rapid development of the Forum over the years. The
Foreign Minister of Spain, Miguel Angel Moratinos, held that the world can only change if there are initiatives that have "capacity to
change mindsets" and to promote respectful dialogue with others.
May 13, Spain was chosen for the UN General Assembly, member of the Human Rights Council for the period 2010-2013, a total of 177
votes. The presentation of the candidacy of Spain to the Human Rights Council reflects the commitment of our country to the promotion
and protection of human rights worldwide, and particularly by the United Nations action.
Spain is the third largest donor to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and promoted in the Human Rights Council
initiatives such as the recognition of the right to drinking water and sanitation.
On May 7, Spain undertook to consider including in its penal code the crime of trafficking in persons for sexual exploitation specific, as
recommended by the Council of the UN Human Rights in the preliminary report of findings and recommendations body, having spent
Spain its periodic review of human rights on 5 May.
In figure also accepted recommendations to "continue efforts to implement and apply the Law of Historical Memory." And others in
favor of continuing to work to combat gender violence, strengthen measures to investigate and punish acts of violence against
immigrants and continue efforts to improve the situation of Roma.
Click here to read more »
SPAIN IN THE UN FROM APRIL TO JUNE 2010
New York, Thursday July 1, 2010
Deputy Prime Minister Maria Teresa Fernandez de la Vega, met in New York with UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon April 26, the First
Vice Prime Minister Maria Teresa Fernandez de la Vega, met in New York with United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon. Both
agreed that the Alliance of Civilizations has become a successful initiative and discussed issues such as UN reform, the priorities of the
Summit on the Millennium Goals and the situation in Haiti.
Third Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations The Third Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations concluded on 29 May in Rio de Janeiro
renovated with a new global dimension, to integrate Latin American perspectives. "This was the first forum outside the
euro-Mediterranean area, which serves to reaffirm the vocation of the Alliance and gives a global profile," said at the close of the meeting
of the High Representative of the UN initiative, the former Portuguese President Jorge Sampaio.
Turkey and Spain reaffirmed their support for this initiative and welcomed the rapid development of the Forum over the years. The
Foreign Minister of Spain, Miguel Angel Moratinos, held that the world can only change if there are initiatives that have "capacity to
change mindsets" and to promote respectful dialogue with others.
May 13, Spain was chosen for the UN General Assembly, member of the Human Rights Council for the period 2010-2013, a total of 177
votes. The presentation of the candidacy of Spain to the Human Rights Council reflects the commitment of our country to the promotion
and protection of human rights worldwide, and particularly by the United Nations action.
Spain is the third largest donor to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and promoted in the Human Rights Council
initiatives such as the recognition of the right to drinking water and sanitation.
On May 7, Spain undertook to consider including in its penal code the crime of trafficking in persons for sexual exploitation specific, as
recommended by the Council of the UN Human Rights in the preliminary report of findings and recommendations body, having spent
Spain its periodic review of human rights on 5 May.
In figure also accepted recommendations to "continue efforts to implement and apply the Law of Historical Memory." And others in
favor of continuing to work to combat gender violence, strengthen measures to investigate and punish acts of violence against
immigrants and continue efforts to improve the situation of Roma.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM SPANISH BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
01 October 2010
Cava de Llano warning about the danger that the economic crisis threatens the coexistence of the citizen
The Ombudsman (ef), Maria Luisa Cava de Llano, presented on 30 September before the Joint Committee on Foreign with the
Ombudsman's annual report for 2009.
In this exercise, issues of nature economic attended a number significant complaints. Hence, Cava de Llano Members warned that the
economic crisis "Is testing our coexistence because it bears a very obvious way to called economic rights. " Rights, affirmed as, "are
part of a large number of complaints handled by the Ombudsman Institution the People. "
The truth is that the economic situation also has influenced management sectors in which complaints are handled. In fact, Supported
files are managed mainly in Economic Management area and the area Health and Social Policy. We are the areas of Role and Public
Employment, Justice and Violence Domestic Planning, Defence and Interior, Education and Culture, and Immigration and Foreign
Affairs. However, in 2009 also there was a significant increase in research in fields related to management justice, town planning,
housing, environment and issues raised by members of the forces and security forces.
In 2009, 18,392 were received in total individual complaints, a number higher than the received in the previous year. This is a average of
about 60 complaints a day.
By contrast, the collective complaints, made by groups of citizens similar interests, were 3626 and recorded a significant decrease
compared with the exceptional number of such complaints previous year.
Regarding investigations initiated the official price, rose to 269, slightly higher than the previous year. Overall, complaint records
(including those initiated by official price) were 22,287, which in historical terms maintains the activity of the institution in higher levels
of performance. As Refers to complaints that allowed for processing, Cava de Llano stressed the importance of a good response to
people who come to the Ombudsman.
Click here to read more »
01 October 2010
Cava de Llano warning about the danger that the economic crisis threatens the coexistence of the citizen
The Ombudsman (ef), Maria Luisa Cava de Llano, presented on 30 September before the Joint Committee on Foreign with the
Ombudsman's annual report for 2009.
In this exercise, issues of nature economic attended a number significant complaints. Hence, Cava de Llano Members warned that the
economic crisis "Is testing our coexistence because it bears a very obvious way to called economic rights. " Rights, affirmed as, "are
part of a large number of complaints handled by the Ombudsman Institution the People. "
The truth is that the economic situation also has influenced management sectors in which complaints are handled. In fact, Supported
files are managed mainly in Economic Management area and the area Health and Social Policy. We are the areas of Role and Public
Employment, Justice and Violence Domestic Planning, Defence and Interior, Education and Culture, and Immigration and Foreign
Affairs. However, in 2009 also there was a significant increase in research in fields related to management justice, town planning,
housing, environment and issues raised by members of the forces and security forces.
In 2009, 18,392 were received in total individual complaints, a number higher than the received in the previous year. This is a average of
about 60 complaints a day.
By contrast, the collective complaints, made by groups of citizens similar interests, were 3626 and recorded a significant decrease
compared with the exceptional number of such complaints previous year.
Regarding investigations initiated the official price, rose to 269, slightly higher than the previous year. Overall, complaint records
(including those initiated by official price) were 22,287, which in historical terms maintains the activity of the institution in higher levels
of performance. As Refers to complaints that allowed for processing, Cava de Llano stressed the importance of a good response to
people who come to the Ombudsman.
Click here to read more »
TRANSLATED FROM SPANISH BY GOOGLE TRANSLATE
May 3, 2010
Human Rights Association of Spain
ONE YEAR LATER ... CONTRIBUTIONS FOR AN EVALUATION HUMAN RIGHTS PLAN THE GOVERNMENT OF SPAIN
FROM CIVIL SOCIETY
Presentation
Human Rights Plan, approved by the Government of Spain in Council Ministers of 12 December 2008, put up with almost early spring
2009.
Designed as open to improvements and new initiatives, and provided with a Monitoring Committee which includes representatives from
civil society, the Plan deserves everyone's attention and effort to assess its achievements and limitations or problems, one after the first
year of implementation.
APDHE, which had already proposed some suggestions for the development of Plan, requested and obtained the support of the Human
Rights Office to perform this evaluating input, which selects some aspects of interest, without pretending impossible to examine the full
extent.
Months after the proposed project, the Federation Defense and Promotion of Human Rights has agreed to establish a group similar work
with the intention of studying the implementation of the Plan until such dates. The group will begin its work in Barcelona on May 11,
2010.
APDHE provides the results of their project to contribute to the task of the whole. The themes chosen were those that follow, the latter
being a suggestion possible extensions of the Plan.
B. LINKS BETWEEN DEVELOPMENT AND COOPERATION PROGRESS IN THE PROMOTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
JOSE ANTONIO GIMBERNAT Ordeig
Human Rights Plan, in action 29, echoes the Master Plan Spanish Cooperation 2009-2012, which records the size of Human Rights as a
horizontal priority. As a representative of the Federation Defense and Promotion of Human Rights Co-operation Council, no I have
evidence that there are methodological assessment procedures this laudable purpose. To the extent above mentioned promotion of human
rights as a horizontal priority: in the European Union Documents The clause speaks of democracy as a prerequisite for cooperation
internationally, as a condition of development policy. All this appears in programmatic statements, but then diluted proposed
mainstreaming when evaluated.
Indeed, human rights are not only civil and political rights but also economic, social and cultural rights and therefore the progress of
cooperation in this field are also progress in promoting human rights. But It only responds to a partial perspective. Claim a relationship
with civil and political rights, requires systematic importance and theming finding, if any, progress in this dimension. This condition of
the clause human rights to guide development policies, in my opinion, no must be understood from a maximalist position, all or nothing,
but as a process which requires countries with which it cooperates, noticeable progress cooperation with improvements in the
guarantees of democratic rights and participation of citizens in the development of their societies.
The emphasis on human rights requires that the countries with which it cooperates, must be satisfied that the aid which is made from
Spain and the European Union Europe has to be carefully evaluated from this perspective that we mean, letting them know that these are
the requirements set in both the Plan as well as in the Plan Board.
To verify the nature of these purposes preeminently declaratory and little cash, I will stop at four examples of cooperation and the
official Help development, which is quite deficient in the link between cooperation and human rights.
Click here to read more>>
May 3, 2010
Human Rights Association of Spain
ONE YEAR LATER ... CONTRIBUTIONS FOR AN EVALUATION HUMAN RIGHTS PLAN THE GOVERNMENT OF SPAIN
FROM CIVIL SOCIETY
Presentation
Human Rights Plan, approved by the Government of Spain in Council Ministers of 12 December 2008, put up with almost early spring
2009.
Designed as open to improvements and new initiatives, and provided with a Monitoring Committee which includes representatives from
civil society, the Plan deserves everyone's attention and effort to assess its achievements and limitations or problems, one after the first
year of implementation.
APDHE, which had already proposed some suggestions for the development of Plan, requested and obtained the support of the Human
Rights Office to perform this evaluating input, which selects some aspects of interest, without pretending impossible to examine the full
extent.
Months after the proposed project, the Federation Defense and Promotion of Human Rights has agreed to establish a group similar work
with the intention of studying the implementation of the Plan until such dates. The group will begin its work in Barcelona on May 11,
2010.
APDHE provides the results of their project to contribute to the task of the whole. The themes chosen were those that follow, the latter
being a suggestion possible extensions of the Plan.
B. LINKS BETWEEN DEVELOPMENT AND COOPERATION PROGRESS IN THE PROMOTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
JOSE ANTONIO GIMBERNAT Ordeig
Human Rights Plan, in action 29, echoes the Master Plan Spanish Cooperation 2009-2012, which records the size of Human Rights as a
horizontal priority. As a representative of the Federation Defense and Promotion of Human Rights Co-operation Council, no I have
evidence that there are methodological assessment procedures this laudable purpose. To the extent above mentioned promotion of human
rights as a horizontal priority: in the European Union Documents The clause speaks of democracy as a prerequisite for cooperation
internationally, as a condition of development policy. All this appears in programmatic statements, but then diluted proposed
mainstreaming when evaluated.
Indeed, human rights are not only civil and political rights but also economic, social and cultural rights and therefore the progress of
cooperation in this field are also progress in promoting human rights. But It only responds to a partial perspective. Claim a relationship
with civil and political rights, requires systematic importance and theming finding, if any, progress in this dimension. This condition of
the clause human rights to guide development policies, in my opinion, no must be understood from a maximalist position, all or nothing,
but as a process which requires countries with which it cooperates, noticeable progress cooperation with improvements in the
guarantees of democratic rights and participation of citizens in the development of their societies.
The emphasis on human rights requires that the countries with which it cooperates, must be satisfied that the aid which is made from
Spain and the European Union Europe has to be carefully evaluated from this perspective that we mean, letting them know that these are
the requirements set in both the Plan as well as in the Plan Board.
To verify the nature of these purposes preeminently declaratory and little cash, I will stop at four examples of cooperation and the
official Help development, which is quite deficient in the link between cooperation and human rights.
Click here to read more>>
| Click map for larger view |
| Click flag for Country Report |
Juan Carlos I
King since 22 November 1975
King since 22 November 1975
Felipe
Prince and Heir Apparent since
30 January 1968
Prince and Heir Apparent since
30 January 1968
| TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS |
None reported.
Maria Teresa Fernandez De La Vega
First Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister
since 17 April 2004
First Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister
since 17 April 2004
Elena Salgado Mendez
Second Vice President
since 08 April 2009
Second Vice President
since 08 April 2009
Manuel Chaves Gonzalez
Third Vice President
since 08 April 2009
Third Vice President
since 08 April 2009
