Spanish monarchy and political tensions

King Felipe VI has made several public appearances amidst a charged political climate in Spain. During the Princess of Asturias Awards in Oviedo, the King addressed the upcoming general elections on November 29, calling for a “daily, civic, and demanding commitment” to democracy and the protection of institutional forms to ensure the common good.

In his remarks, the King emphasized that democracy requires a “care of forms” and urged political actors to avoid divisive narratives and humiliation during disagreements. He positioned the monarchy as a symbol of unity and a moderating force intended to provide permanence amidst increasing social and political polarization.

In a subsequent visit to the Mondragon Corporation in the Debagoiena region, the King’s itinerary included discussions on strategic lines at the Mondragon Management and Cooperative Development Center. This visit was met with organized republican protests in the nearby town of Arrasate, where demonstrators advocated for a Basque republic using the slogan “Kanpora!” and encouraged the display of ikurriñas to signal opposition to the monarch’s presence.