Glossary · B
Barbie Gaza
Pejorative nickname popularized in 2025 by sectors of the Spanish alternative right to refer to Ana María Alcalde Callejas, a Spanish crew member of the Global Sumud Flotilla bound for Gaza. The term went viral on social media and outlets aligned with anti-progressive narratives.
Bicameralism
Parliamentary structure with two chambers (Congress and Senate in Spain). The Senate provides territorial representation, although its real role is very limited and its reform is a recurring debate.
Two-party system
Political system dominated by two large parties that alternate in power. In Spain it describes the 1982-2015 phase, with PSOE and PP as the system's pillars before post-15M fragmentation.
Investiture bloc
Set of parties that back the candidate for prime minister in the investiture session. After 2023: PSOE, Sumar, ERC, Junts, EH Bildu, PNV, BNG and CC.
Institutional gridlock
Situation in which a state body cannot be renewed or function due to lack of agreement between the parties responsible for its appointments. Typical cases: CGPJ, RTVE, Constitutional Court.
Hoax (bulo)
False information deliberately spread through social media or outlets. Central to the disinformation debate; government and opposition routinely accuse each other of spreading them in every political crisis.
Búnker (Francoist hardliners)
The most reactionary sector of the Franco regime, opposed to any democratic opening. The term became popular during late Francoism and the Transition to identify the regime's hardliners.
Hinge party
Formation with enough seats to swing a governing majority to either of the major parties. PNV, CiU/Junts and ERC have historically played this role; Sumar and Junts do so after 2023.