The King of Spain: Roles and Functions in Government

The King of Spain: Roles and Functions

Constitutional Mandate (Article 56.1)

The King is the Head of State, a symbol of its unity and permanence. He arbitrates and moderates the regular functioning of the institutions and exercises the functions expressly conferred by the Constitution and the law.

Nature of Royal Functions

The King's functions are designed to fulfill his symbolic, arbitration, and moderating purposes. He may use his personal influence, information, and counsel within the scope of his authority. These functions establish the King as a unique entity, separate from the three classic powers of the state. The Constitution separates the Head of State from the Executive Branch.

General Tasks

The Constitution attributes general tasks to the King, which can be classified into three groups. When exercising these functions, the King's acts require endorsement by other subjects to be completed.

• Symbolic Function: As a symbol of the State's unity and permanence, the King holds the highest representation of Spain in international relations (Article 65). This includes the hereditary role, automatic transfer of the Head of State position, and representation of the State's symbols.
• Moderator Role: The King collaborates with other State powers in legal acts, such as the appointment of ministers.
• Arbitration Role: The King acts as an arbitrator between various political forces, addressing tensions and clashes. He works to prevent institutional blockages and facilitate solutions. This includes proposing a candidate for the Presidency of the Government at the appropriate time.

Specific Functions with Different Branches of Government

Legislative Power

• Calls and dissolves Parliament
• Calls general elections
• Calls for referendums
• Signs and sanctions the promulgation of laws

Executive Power

• Proposes and appoints the Prime Minister
• Appoints and dismisses ministers
• Issues decrees approved in the Council of Ministers
• Confers civil and military positions
• Awards honors and distinctions
• Receives information on State affairs and presides over meetings of the Council of Ministers
• Holds the supreme command of the Armed Forces

Judiciary

• Appoints the President of the Supreme Court
• Appoints the State Attorney General
• Exercises the right of pardon under the law

Other Key Responsibilities

International Relations

• Accredits ambassadors and other diplomatic representatives
• Expresses the State's consent to international obligations through treaties

Constitutional Court

• Appoints judges to the Constitutional Court

Autonomous Communities

• Appoints the Presidents of Autonomous Communities