In 2025, we celebrate a historical milestone: fifty years ago, Spanish society, amidst deep political uncertainty, decided to bet on democracy and freedom. It was a brave decision that transformed our country and laid the foundations for a modern, plural, and supportive Spain. Today, as the Island Director of the General State Administration in Lanzarote, I want to reflect on this anniversary and its significance for our society.
The "Spain in Freedom" project has three clear objectives: to celebrate the economic, social, and institutional transformation of these five decades; to honor those who made this collective success possible; and to transmit to new generations the importance of protecting and strengthening our democracy. This last objective is especially relevant in a global context where authoritarianism and reactionary discourses are gaining ground.
The data speaks for itself. During the Franco dictatorship, there was no freedom of the press or expression, homosexuals were persecuted, and women lived under a patriarchal system that relegated them to the domestic sphere. Spain was a poor, isolated country with no opportunities. Today, thanks to collective effort, our democracy has allowed unprecedented progress, reflected in a freer, fairer, and more prosperous society.
However, democracy is not an immovable achievement. Its defense requires a daily commitment, especially against those who try to trivialize the progress made or yearn for a past of oppression and deprivation. From Lanzarote, an island that embodies the values of coexistence and plurality, we must reinforce our commitment to these principles.
It is inevitable to question whether these celebrations can divide society. The answer is clear: the vindication of democracy does not divide, it unites. Those who argue otherwise are defending positions that, implicitly, question democratic values. In this context, I am convinced that the vast majority of citizens celebrate living in freedom and reject any nostalgia for an authoritarian past.
As a society, we must also be critical of significant absences. The absence of the Popular Party in the celebrations reflects, once again, an inexplicable discomfort with criticism of Francoism and with the defense of the democratic legacy. It is inconceivable that any democrat would refuse to recognize and celebrate the most luminous stage of Spain's recent history.
Finally, let us remember that Spain is not alone in this commemoration. Countries around us have celebrated similar anniversaries, highlighting the value of their democratic transitions. Let us follow that example, not only to remember the past but to build a future that honors the sacrifice of those who preceded us and guarantees our future generations a solid and lasting democracy.
Today, 50 years later, we can proudly say that betting on freedom was the best decision our society could have made. Let us continue working together, from Lanzarote and from all over Spain, so that this democratic legacy remains the fundamental pillar of our progress.
