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Suppression of the crime of insults to the Crown, Urtasun, 'this is a step to end the medieval'
- September 21, 2024
The Minister of Culture, Ernest Urtasun, has been instrumental in the negotiations that resulted in a plan packed with crucial reforms. A total of 31 measures that aim to reshape Spain's democratic system have been presented as a step forward towards greater transparency and freedom of expression.
This democratic action plan is considered one of the most significant in the recent history of the Government. Urtasun He explained in an interview that he had sought a balanced approach between the expectations of different political forces. His central objective was to eliminate the injustices that persist in current laws, especially with regard to the Penal Code .
One of the most notable reforms is the abolition of the crime of insulting the Crown. Urtasun He says this is a step towards ending “the medieval” and ensuring that artists and citizens can express themselves freely without fear of reprisal. This reflects a more modern vision in line with human rights standards .
The area of civil liberties also benefits from this new legislation. The proposals include reforms aimed at repealing the controversial gag law. In addition, there are measures that will allow journalists to carry out their work in a safer environment, protecting their integrity and freedom to inform.
The plan goes beyond individual legal reforms; it seeks to transform the media landscape in Spain . It includes measures to regulate how media outlets should operate and ensure that they are funded using sound judgment. The aim is to ensure that public money is not used to spread fake news or to fund media outlets that do not fulfil their informative role.
The development of these measures will not be instantaneous. The Government is expected to work on the gradual implementation of these reforms during the legislative period. Some measures, such as the reform of the law on official secrets, are already at a certain stage in Congress and could be presented for consideration as soon as possible.
As the government seeks support in Congress, it is crucial how these reforms will be perceived by different political groups. Resistance or support from parties such as the PP could alter the course of the legislation. Urtasun He is confident that many of these initiatives will be supported as legitimate steps towards a more robust democracy.
Transparency regarding media ownership is essential. It is hoped that these reforms will enable citizens to know who is behind each media outlet and what their agenda is. This is an attempt to break the oligopolistic dynamics that have prevailed in the Spanish media space.
The role of the citizen becomes the centrepiece of a ground-breaking report on democracy. In an environment where information has become a commodity subject to manipulation, the Government aims to give voice and power back to citizens, ensuring that a plural and fair media environment is fostered.
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