SPAIN’S

TRANSITION
AND THE
COUNTRY’S
ENTRY INTO
THE EUROPEAN
ECONOMIC
COMMUNITY
CRISTINA RODRÍGUEZ CORTINA

UNIVERSITÀ DEGLI STUDI DI FIRENZE | 2022/23

SPAIN’S TRANSITION AND THE COUNTRY’S ENTRY INTO THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC
COMMUNITY
INTRODUCTION 2
ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION. THE SPANISH TRANSITION 2
INTERNAL DIMENSION 3
Report 3
Periods of the Transition 5
EXTERNAL DIMENSION 5
Influence of United States 5
Influence of Europe 6
Influence of Spain 7
ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION. SPAIN AND EUROPE 9
THE MAIN ACTORS IN THE SPANISH TRANSITION AND THEIR POSITION IN EUROPE 9
Francoism 9
Opposition to Francoism 10
Democratic governments 11
SPAIN'S ROAD TO EUROPE 12
CONCLUSION 13
REFERENCES 15

1
 SPAIN'S TRANSITION AND THE COUNTRY’S ENTRY INTO
THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY
The aim is to analyze the Spanish Transition through the motivations behind Europeanism
and its influences.
INTRODUCTION
Indeed, Spain is a full member of the European Union. Since then, Spain has actively
participated in decision-making and in the implementation of EU policies. The Treaty of
Rome was signed in 1957, which created the European common market and established
freedom of movement.
Transition is a term that describes both internal and external processes. Internal transition
implies a political, social or economic change within Spain. Transforming the system from a
dictatorial system to a democratic one. External transition relates international relations to the
transformation of the country.
Both processes, the Spanish Transition and Spain's accession to the EEC, are closely related
as they had an impact on Spain's political and economic transformation. There were several
very significant factors and actors during that period: the geopolitical context, international
solidarity, the aspiration to develop a Europeanist idea and to recognize the actors who have
been part of the challenges.
The purpose of this paper is to contribute to research on the world's only known peaceful
transition. And to understand the legacy it has left through the road it had to travel to become
the country it is today.
ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION. THE SPANISH TRANSITION
The Spanish transition was a period of profound political, economic and social changes that
marked the transition from a dictatorship headed by Francisco Franco, a military man who
adopted protectionist and centralized policies, to a democratic system. It spanned from the
time of Francisco Franco's death until the adoption of the Constitution in 1978.
This fact was consolidated with Spain's entry into the European Economic Community,
giving rise to democracy, which promoted the country's modernization and economic growth.

2
Dimension internal
The internal dynamics were not without tensions. Various debates and divisions
erupted over issues of amnesty, national reconciliation and the model of the state.
Several factors determined the future of the Spanish nation.
Report
To understand the background to the Spanish Transition we have to go back to
the Franco dictatorship that followed the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939).
Between 1939 and 1975, Spain was under the authoritarian regime of
Francisco Franco. Franco took power after the victory of the Nationalist forces
in the Civil War and maintained this power until his death.
Policies restricting citizens' freedoms such as freedom of expression and
participation in politics, among others, were promoted. A centralized and
authoritarian state was established. Power was concentrated in the central
government and was exercised without separation of powers. General Franco
was the highest authority and the key decision-maker. It promoted a nationalist
and centralist ideology that sought to homogenize the nation with a single
language, culture and political system.
The regime had control over all the regions of Spain, limiting their
competences. It eliminated any sign of decentralization or autonomy that
opposed the central power.
During this period the concept of "organic democracy" was used. The
advocates of this regime held this term as an alternative democracy to liberal
democracy. In which intermediate bodies represented the interests of citizens
in different sectors of society through decision-making in public affairs.
It is true that as the decade progressed, the need to open up to the outside
world and put an end to international isolation became more evident. In 1953
air and naval agreements were signed with the United States. In 1955 it joined
the United Nations, in 1958 the World Bank and the International Monetary
Fund, and in 1959 the National Stabilization Plan was signed.
During the 1960s and 1970s there was an increase in social and political
demands. A few important changes were brought about that laid the
foundations for the

3
Spanish transition to democracy. The student movement stood out in the
resistance and opposition to the dictatorial regime. They became an important
force of protest and demand for political and social change through protests
and demonstrations.

In the 1970s, the main opposition to Francoism was coordinated through

different political and social actors and movements. Meanwhile, as the regime
showed signs of weakening, different groups and organizations joined the
struggle for the democratization of Spain.
- Spanish Communist Party: It consolidated itself as the main opposition
party to Francoism, with its bases in the workers' and trade union
movements. And the main democratic socialist model.
- Spanish Socialist Workers' Party: Leading opposition party and
defender of social democracy. More moderate left-wing ideology.
- Basque nationalist party: Represented the interests of the Basque
region. They sought autonomy and recognition of cultural and political
identity.
In this same decade the leader of the regime deteriorated considerably due to
various health problems. To continue the political, social and economic
structures, he appointed Luis Carrero Blanco as President of the Government.
He was expected to continue the regime's policies and was considered Franco's
successor.
However, on 20 December 1973, he was brutally assassinated by ETA. It was
from this moment that a period of uncertainty and political change began for
Spain.
It was then Francisco Franco, after the death of Carrero Blanco, who
appointed Carlos Arias Navarro, who held the post of President of the
Government during the last years of the Franco regime.
1974 was a crucial event for Portugal as the Carnation Revolution brought an
end to the dictatorship. The Spaniards were inspired to continue fighting for
the longed-for democracy and freedom.

4
 Periods of the Transition
On 20 November 1975, a new stage in the history of Spain began, for after
Adolfo Suárez's phrase, "Spaniards, Franco is dead", a new path began.
Juan Carlos I is proclaimed King of Spain on 22 November 1975.
And on 3 July 1976, Juan Carlos I and after the resignation of Carlos Arias
Navarro, Adolfo Suárez was appointed president of the government.
Suárez played a key role in the transition process. He reformed policies and
drafted a democratic constitution. He implemented social policies and reforms.
He legalized trade unions and political parties. He achieved consensus and
progress.
In 1977 the first democratic elections for Spain took place with the
participation of:
- Democratic Centre Union: Won 165 seats.
- Spanish Socialist Workers' Party: They won 118 seats.
- Communist Party of Spain: They won 20 seats.
- Alianza Popular: Won 16 seats.
After the Moncloa Pacts, the Agreement on the programme for economic
consolidation and reform and the Agreement on the programme for legal and
political action. The adoption of the 1978 Constitution and the separation of
legislative, executive and judicial powers marked a turning point in the
country's course.
Dimension external
During the process of the Spanish Transition, external influence played an important
role. The international context, the support of the international community, the
influence of the European Economic Community and the backing of organizations
cooperated with the establishment of democracy.
Influence United States
During the transition process, the US established relations with Spain, with the
aim of bringing them into the Western bloc, as they had strategic interests:
- Spain has a strategic position as it borders Europe, Africa, is
surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

5
 - The United States has military bases in Spain through which it
monitors the Mediterranean.
After the end of Franco's regime, the United States feared the advance of
communist or left-wing movements. This political change increased concerns.
Although there were concerns, the process was managed peacefully and with
respect for international commitments. In 1976, the signing of the Treaty of
Amity and Cooperation was renewed.
In conclusion, the United States maintained an economic and diplomatic
relationship with Spain during the Franco regime, although there were also
clashes over the lack of democracy and human rights. However, as time
passed and Francoism came to an end, the United States promoted more
support and backing for the Transition process.
Influence of Europe
Europe's influence was crucial for the development and consolidation of
Spain's democracy. The quest for integration into the European community
was a fundamental pillar and had a political, economic and social impact.
European countries' interactions with Spain during Franco's regime varied
depending on the circumstances of each country. Not all countries adopted the
same stance, for as the century progressed, circumstances changed.
Many European governments rejected authoritarianism as repressive. They
therefore distanced themselves from and condemned the political regime,
reaffirming their commitment to human rights and freedom. In general,
European governments were cautious and reserved towards the Franco regime.
In Europe, the proclamation of Spain's King Juan Carlos I was seen as positive
for the relationship due to:
- Its commitment to stability.
- Continued cooperation with Europe.
- Establishment of a fully democratic system.
- Promoting positive policies and reforms for Europe.

6
European states were eager for Spain to engage, promote and support:
- European stability by consolidating what they promoted.
- Interests and participation of citizens and the rule of law.
- Integration and collaboration on economic, political and security
issues.
Influence of Spain
- Spanish foreign policy before the transition
The Second World War excluded Spain from the new international
order. Some of the reasons for this exclusion were mainly neutrality in
the war, as Spain was reluctant to take sides with the Axis powers. For
the Allies it was synonymous with neutrality, and this hindered
participation in negotiations and international agreements. Moreover,
Francisco Franco's regime was a non-democratic system with
economic policies of independence towards other economies. The
restrictions implemented limited human rights and participation. For
this reason, they were excluded from international organizations such
as the United Nations. In addition, Spain formalized relations with non-
democratic countries and former colonies that supported each other
economically and politically and thus strengthened its investment.
Diplomatic isolation was one of the main reasons for the limited
international presence and the poor outlook towards the country.
In 1957 Fernando María Castiella was appointed to the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs. The public saw the appointment as an aspiration for
Spain's role in the international order.
He was crucial for foreign policy as he changed international relations
and opened Spain to the outside world by carrying out a series of actions
such as the incorporation of bilateral relations with European countries
and also participated in conferences and meetings through international
diplomacy. His administration led to Spain's entry into the

7
 United Nations and in the Economic Development Organization.
Between the 1950s and the 1960s Spain was admitted as a full member
of various international organizations. Entry and cooperation
consolidated the opening and liberation towards a democratic policy
that contributes to human rights.
- Spanish foreign policy during the Transition underwent severe
changes. Transformations were taking place as the country became
more democratic. The main objective was to join the European
Economic Community. This led to reforms in the country's policy. The
isolation experienced under Franco was changing. Efforts were made
to sign bilateral and diplomatic agreements with different nations.
Those that had been kept at a distance during the dictatorship of
Francisco Franco.

Spain fought for human rights worldwide. Strengthening systems to

combat human rights violations.
Cultural exchanges were strengthened and promoted to reinforce
economic and political ties.
Peace and stability in its environment were a crucial role for the
country. It carried out missions for the resolution of active conflicts in
different parts of the world.
The consolidation of democracy was represented by several foreign
ministers.
During the first part of the Transition and under Adolfo Suárez as
President of the Government, Marcelino Oreja and José Pedro Pérez-
Llorca contributed from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the
integration into international organizations and in the negotiations for
entry into the European Economic Community. After this, Leopoldo
Calvo Sotelo took power together with José Pedro Pérez-Llorca.
Finally, Fernando Morán and Francisco Fernández Ordoñez joined
Felipe González's government as representatives of the Spanish
government.

8
 The Spanish Foreign Ministry was approached by the Spanish Foreign
Ministry for Spain to join the European Union.
ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION. SPAIN AND EUROPE
Spain's path to European Community membership was a diverse and challenging process.
As early as the mid-20th century, Spain showed interest in joining the European Communities.
The motivations were very diverse.
The Franco regime had always tried to isolate Spain from other countries because they thought
it would improve their political and economic position. However, the opposition to Franco's
regime wanted to modernize the country by cooperating with the European common market.
In 1960 the first approaches were made by participating in meetings and establishing
diplomatic relations with the European Communities. Modernization thinking in terms of social
development and welfare was becoming increasingly popular.
Tourism also played a crucial role in influencing the Europeanist trend in Spanish society. The
contact with different ways of life generated a broader vision. It also gave Spain an
economic boost.
Spain felt that it was lagging far behind other European countries and needed a change.
They longed for the European project. They saw European membership as theonly solution.
The main actors of the Spanish Transition and their position in Europe During
the Spanish Transition there was a clear opposition between the defenders of
Francoism and the opponents of Francoism. They were key to the country's entry into
the European Economic Community.
The Francoism
During the Spanish Transition, only some supporters of Francoism envisaged
entry into the European Community as an economic project. The signing of
the 1957 Treaty of Rome provoked debates which led to the division into:
- The most conservative maintained international isolation by resisting
further integration into Europe. They saw their identity and sovereignty
threatened and feared the continuity of Franco's regime.

9
 Within this position, different leaders of the movement stood out, such
as the founder of the Spanish Falange, José Antonio Primo de Rivera,
the main politician of Franco's ideology and defender of the
authoritarian and centralized state. Also prominent was the founder of
the political party Fuerza Nueva, Blas Piñar, a politician and lawyer
who defended the most traditionalist and authoritarian principles of the
regime. In addition, other Francoist politicians such as Gonzalo
Fernández de la Mora and Carlos Arias Navarro opposed any political
change as they were resistant to change.
- The more pragmatic supported the idea, if only for economic and
commercial reasons, as they saw it as an opportunity to obtain
economic benefits and modernize the country, without this implying
adherence to European democratic principles. Some of the most
cooperative representatives with Europe were the foreign ministers in
57-69, Fernando María Castiella, and in 73-74, José María de Areilza,
who promoted a more open foreign policy and laid the foundations and
conditions for Spain's rapprochement with the European community.
As well as the Minister of Planning and Development, Laureano López
Rodó, an economic adviser and advocate of Spain's integration into the
European market for its modernization.
The advances implemented by Franco's regime led to the implementation of
the 1959 National Economic Stabilization Plan. It was created to promote the
opening of Spain to international trade and thus overcome economic autarky.
It was considered important as it contributed to economic stabilization through
fiscal and monetary reforms. These foundations were necessary for Spain's
subsequent accession to the European Economic Community.
The opposition to Francoism
On the other hand, anti-Francoists had a positive view of the European project.
They saw integration as an opportunity to fight for democracy and give Spain
the chance to develop economically.

10
The Spanish Communist Party developed a Policy of National Recognition by
which they sought to reconcile political and social forces in order to achieve a
peaceful transition under dialogue and negotiation by trying to resolve the
discussions and negotiations that would lay the foundations for Spanish
democracy.
There were also other sectors of the opposition more adverse to integration,
such as student groups who saw European entry as a boost to capitalist policies
and a threat to national sovereignty.
Integration into Europe was not unanimous. While some groups defended
integration as a way for Spain to prosper, freedom and progress. Others saw it
as a form of neoliberal pressure.
Governments democratic
Franco's death and the 1977 elections played a crucial role in Spain's history.
The main objective was Spain's accession to the European Community.
Adolfo Suárez, the president of the first democratic government, was
responsible for the accession to the European Economic Community. From the
beginning of his presidency, he carried out a series of political and economic
reforms with the aim of reaching out to Europe.
It was during his term of office that the Spanish Constitution was adopted in
1978, demonstrating Suárez's desire to bring the state closer to Europe.
Similarly, after his proclamation as King of Spain, Juan Carlos I assumed a
key role in the process of democratic transition. He was committed to political
and social changes to achieve reconciliation and full stability in the country.
For many years, he was the face of Spain's foreign policy, maintained relations
with various European representatives and worked to forge ties and links that
fostered trust and support for Spanish democratization. His role was also key
to the appointment of Adolfo Suárez as president.
Likewise, Felipe González, Prime Minister of Spain from 1982 to 1996, was
key to full membership of the European Economic Community.

11
 During his leadership, the government of Felipe González implemented
reforms of modernization, privatization, market opening, and the
establishment of the criteria required by the European Economic Community
for its accession. In addition to reforms in working conditions and equality,
social security reforms were carried out in order to meet European standards.
Finally, the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party was also a democratic
government that defended the European project. Led by Felipe González, it
managed to achieve stability. They supported the development project through
various political and economic reforms to improve the welfare of the
population. He actively promoted integration until 1986, when he signed the
treaty for Spain's accession to the European Community. It was under his
socialist government that the negotiations were concluded.
Spain's road to Europe
The process through which Spain went through to conclude its accession to the
European Economic Community was a gradual one. It is difficult to prove its origin,
although a series of events took place with the aim of achieving accession, which
concluded with accession.
The background that led to the request took place in Munich. During the congress
different political leaders were heard who promoted European integration. Different
issues of cooperation between countries were discussed and the necessary measures to
achieve the unification of Europe were concretized. Different organizations such
as the Spanish Association for European Cooperation integrated different actors
working for cooperation. They were made up of different people from different
political parties, trade unions and associations that spread European values and tried
to adapt European standards in Spain. The resolution of the Munich European
movementpromoted several aspects such as the need for the creation of representative
political systems, the importance of defending people's rights, recognizing different
communities, allowing freedom in organizations and trade unions and the importance
of freedom by encouraging citizen participation and political pluralism.

12
 The Munich Congress punished Francoism, but they took it upon themselves to carry
out a propagandist policy against the meeting. But it was a key milestone that
implemented important changes.
After Franco's death, the fall of the dictatorship and the first democratic elections in
1977, Spain again applied for membership. Due to its commitment and the numerous
negotiations to adapt Spain to the European requirements, Spain finally became a
fully-fledged European country in 1986.
Spain committed itself to and developed a leading role in the European project. It
contributed with its policies and programs to form its regulatory and legal framework.
In addition, it received funds to develop its plan, improve its infrastructure and
participate in research programs.
It was also in that year that a referendum was held to consult Spaniards on whether
they wanted to remain a member of NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
The positive outcome of the referendum facilitated Spain's integration into the
international community.
CONCLUSION
The Spanish Transition was one of the greatest achievements of my country, Spain. It was a
social and political process that allowed democracy to be established after years of Francisco
Franco's dictatorship. Despite internal tensions, the consensus of political groups to end the
regime stands out.
The national actors demonstrated the capacity to overcome the dimensions of the past.
Moreover, as I have previously mentioned, it had the support of both the United States and
Europe, both of which had an interest in Spain also being part of the project.
The Transition was an international historical milestone because it was strongly conditioned
by the outside world. External factors influenced not only the direction, but also provided
support and resources to carry it out. Spain is a key player in the world order as its size, social
and economic potential and location allow it to play an influential role in global decisions.
Spain's road to Europe involved political and economic barriers, they had to adapt to European
standards and despite the challenges along the way, Europe provided important economic,
political and social benefits.

13
The Spanish felt that their country was inferior and the only hope they had for
advancement was Europe. After accession, they felt that Europe was the "solution" to all the
problems they had had during the previous years.
Spain managed to become what they had always dreamed of, a modern country, with
professional opportunities, decision-making power, free movement of people, more academic
and developed.
One of the most outstanding aspects of the Spanish transition is their ability to solve problems
without resorting to violence. They were able to negotiate and reach agreements through
dialogue and consensus between the different actors. There were tensions and challenges that
they managed to avoid. It is for other countries, but above all for us Spaniards, an example that
it is possible to achieve objectives through political consensus.

14
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