José Ignacio Torreblanca

“The European Union is failing”: Exclusive Interview with Felipe González

Felipe González, former Prime Minister of the Spanish Government (1982-1996), was interviewed by José Ignacio Torreblanca, head of the Madrid Office and Senior Policy Fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, as part of the series of interviews 'Spain and Europe in times of crisis'. 

Spain’s new culture war

The inauguration of the most fragmented parliament since 1978 will usher in a period of culture war centring on national identity

Europe in no man’s land

To remain relevant in the twenty-first century Europe needs to revamp its toolbox by integrating its capabilities

Borrell returns: His vision for Europe

A conversation between Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell and José Ignacio Torreblanca ahead of the European elections

Spain: The European oasis

Spaniards remain fervent believers in the European project despite the lasting effects of 2008 financial crisis. 

Spain’s election and the temptation of yielding to the far-right

Spain is a bulwark of pro-European values and a progressive immigration policy. The poor performance of the conservatives in the parliamentary elections sends an important message to conservative parties Europe-wide.

Spain election: A win for “No pasarán”?

Pedro Sánchez united the vote in the face of the Vox threat. The other big winner was Ciudadanos – which could now supplant the conservative PP as the main opposition

Spain’s craziest election ever

Spain's snap election will be of “existential importance” – below, an explainer to get ready for Sunday outlining the contenders and possible outcomes