Glossary · A
Abertzale
Basque adjective meaning 'patriot'; designates the left-wing Basque nationalist movement, historically tied to pro-independence forces (HB, Batasuna, now EH Bildu).
Aforamiento (special jurisdiction)
Procedural privilege under which certain public officials can only be tried by higher courts (Supreme Court or Higher Courts of Justice). Covers MPs, senators, judges, prosecutors and government members.
Agenda 2030
Global UN plan (2015) with 17 Sustainable Development Goals. In Spain it is championed by the PSOE-Sumar bloc and a frequent target of Vox and conservative sectors who associate it with globalism.
Amnesty
Pardon measure that extinguishes criminal liability for past acts. In Spain it is most associated with the 2024 Organic Law of Amnesty for those involved in the Catalan procés.
Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office
Special Prosecutor's Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime. Investigates economic crimes by public officials. Lead actor in cases such as Gürtel, Púnica, Lezo and Koldo.
Anti-establishment
Political stance that rejects traditional elites and regime parties. In Spain it has been claimed by Podemos in 2014, Vox since 2018 and Se Acabó la Fiesta in 2024.
Aval (parliamentary endorsement)
Public commitment by a party to back a candidate in an investiture vote, usually signed in a document called a pact. Typically negotiated in exchange for political concessions.
Ayusismo
Style and political line associated with Isabel Díaz Ayuso: economic liberalism, clashes with the central government, controversial pandemic management and direct communication.
Aznarismo
Doctrine and political imprint associated with José María Aznar and his time leading the government (1996-2004): Atlanticism, economic liberalism, hard line against peripheral nationalism and alignment with the United States.