Rajoy’s difficult year

The Spanish prime minister was facing a stiff challenge when he took power 12 months ago. So far, the benefits of his peculiar approach to governing are hard to see.
The Spanish prime minister was facing a stiff challenge when he took power 12 months ago. So far, the benefits of his peculiar approach to governing are hard to see.
To his supporters he’s calm, considered, strategic and resilient. But to his critics – whose ranks have swelled this year – Spain’s prime minister is hesitant, rigid, poorly advised and uncharismatic.
Iberosphere editor Guy Hedgecoe looks ahead to the political, social and economic challenges the government of Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy will face over the coming weeks.
The ongoing economic slump has helped erode the credibility of Spain’s banks, politicians, judiciary and royalty. The much-vaunted Transition to democracy needs to be updated.
The Spanish government’s cuts have included slashing the funds aimed at easing integration of immigrants.
Record cuts, a key regional election, market hostility and a general strike – all in three months. What does all this tell Spain’s prime minister?