Constitutional Rights and Duties of Spanish Citizens

Constitutional Duties

Article 15 EC: Right to Life

Everyone has the right to life and physical and moral integrity. No one may be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. The death penalty is abolished, except for what military criminal law may dictate in times of war.

Article 30 EC: Military Service and Civil Service

1. Article 30.2 EC: The law shall determine the military obligations of Spaniards and shall regulate, with the necessary safeguards, conscientious objection and other causes for exemption from compulsory military service. It may impose a substitute social service.
2. Article 30.3 EC: A civil service may be established for the fulfillment of objectives of general interest.
3. Article 30.4 EC: By law, the duties of citizens may be regulated in cases of serious risk, catastrophe, or public calamity.

Article 31.1 EC: Tax Obligations

All shall contribute to sustaining public expenditure according to their economic capacity through a fair tax system based on principles of equality and progressiveness. In no case shall it be confiscatory.

Article 35.1 EC: Duty and Right to Work

All Spaniards have the duty to work and the right to work, to free choice of profession or trade, to advancement through work, and to remuneration sufficient to satisfy their needs and those of their family. Under no circumstances may there be discrimination based on sex.

Article 3.1 EC: Official Language

Spanish is the official language of the State. All Spaniards have the duty to know it and the right to use it.

Article 76.2 EC: Obligation to Appear Before Congress

It is compulsory to appear when summoned by the Chambers. The law shall regulate the sanctions to be imposed for failure to comply with this requirement.

Article 45.1 EC: Right to a Suitable Environment

Everyone is entitled to enjoy an environment suitable for the development of the individual, and has the duty to preserve it.

Article 43.2 EC: Right to Health

The public authorities shall organize and maintain public health through preventative measures and through benefits and services. The law shall establish the rights and duties of all in this regard.