Spain Launches Franco Commemoration, Dividing Political Landscape

Prime Minister Sánchez highlights democratic progress while facing criticism from conservatives and calls for reflection on Europe's political challenges.

• The Spanish government has initiated a year-long series of events commemorating the 50th anniversary of dictator Francisco Franco's death, emphasizing the nation's democratic transformation since 1975.
• Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the commemoration as a tribute to the struggles that shaped Spain into a leading democracy, with events planned in schools, universities, and public spaces nationwide.
• Conservative leaders, including opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo, criticized the initiative as politically motivated and divisive, with some accusing Sánchez of reopening historical wounds for political gain.
• The commemorations occur in a polarized political climate, with rising far-right movements like Vox openly embracing Franco's legacy and challenging Spain's democratic narrative.
• During the launch event, Sánchez also warned of the resurgence of autocratic ideologies in Europe, accusing Elon Musk of spreading hate and undermining democratic institutions through his platform, X.

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