The possible resignation of Pedro Sánchez has captured the attention of all the media, including international ones. But beyond the internal controversy, we have analyzed several geopolitical keys that will interest you.
Meanwhile, the world continues to spin. This week we look at the terrible situation of violence in Ecuador, at the new balance of power in the Middle East and we recount the vetoes of the Security Council: the last one, from the United States, has prevented Palestine from being admitted as a member of the UN . We also celebrate Book Day with a special podcast.
Sánchez is not guaranteed a place in the EU if he resigns
There are those who believe that Sánchez intends to resign because he has a secured position in the European Union. It’s not so clear. Sánchez has been in the running for a long time to occupy a high position in the EU or NATO, but if he finally leaves Moncloa there is little chance of him getting it.
The only viable option is the presidency of the European Council, a position that must be renewed after the European elections. However, there are several candidates with better options than Sánchez. The presidency of the Commission, the general secretary of NATO or an important position in the UN also seem ruled out in the short term. We explain it here.
In any case, Sánchez has something in his favor: in Europe he is not a polarizing figure. 25% of EU citizens have an unfavorable opinion and 17% have a favorable opinion; most don’t know him well enough. See the map below:
Not generating major rejections in any country is important to access positions in Brussels. Macron, the French president, for example, is much more polarizing. You have Sánchez’s data by country and the comparison with other European leaders here.
What impact will this entire institutional crisis have on Spain’s image abroad? Sánchez has reinvigorated Spain’s international presence after two less active predecessors in foreign policy: Rajoy and Zapatero. We could even say that in recent years we have experienced a certain geopolitical awakening.
Our voice has been heard more outside: we have organized the NATO summit in 2022 and the COP in 2019, held the presidency of the EU in 2023 or led the recognition of Palestine in Europe. Sánchez moves with ease in summits and the international media. Although there are also shadows, such as the relationship with Morocco or the lack of a State foreign policy.
All progress is called into question with the uncertainty in which Sánchez has plunged Spanish politics. If he finally resigns, the country will plunge into an internal crisis that will once again condemn international politics to the bottom of the list of priorities. We analyze it here.
