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Madrid Assembly Approves Law Letting Region Join Criminal Cases Over Event Disruptions

The change sets up a sharper clash with Spain’s central delegate over protest control at major events.

Overview

  • The regional Assembly, which voted Thursday in a single-reading fast track, passed the bill with PP and Vox support as PSOE and Más Madrid opposed it.
  • The law lets the Comunidad de Madrid act as a popular prosecutor, a role that allows non-victims to take part in a criminal case, in crimes that block public events and in damage to natural or historic heritage.
  • Government delegate Francisco Martín demanded President Isabel Díaz Ayuso withdraw the plan and urged Madrid’s mayor to bar Shakira’s fall concerts unless attendee safety is guaranteed.
  • Opposition parties said the measure could be used to push protesters into court and faulted the rushed process and limited consultation with security and civic groups.
  • Regional leaders say the tool protects big gatherings after last year’s Vuelta finish in Madrid was halted by mass protests, as the city readies major concerts and the 2026 Formula 1 race.