MEPs urge European Commission to protect voting rights in Spain

A group of 26 Members of the European Parliament from the Socialists, The Left, and the Greens have requested the European Commission to intervene regarding the voting rights of citizens naturalized under Spain’s ‘grandparents law’.

The Spanish Supreme Court issued a precautionary suspension of voting rights for those who obtained nationality through this law, which allows descendants of those forced into exile during the dictatorship to claim citizenship. While these individuals retain their Spanish nationality, the suspension could prevent them from participating in the upcoming general elections on November 29.

In a letter addressed to EU Justice Commissioner Michael McGrath, the MEPs argued that the measure raises serious questions regarding proportionality, equality, and political participation. They warned that the impact would be irreversible once the elections occur and noted that the decision could also affect participation in the 2029 European Parliament elections.