The Monarchy in Spain Ascensión Elvira Perales 29/01/2010
This paper offers an overlook on the institution of monarchy in Spain: history, organization, competences and legitimization. We emphasize the fact that with almost all competences formally linked to the King's role as Head of State, the monarch only carries out a 'formal act', whereas decisions rest with the Government and responsibility rests with the countersignatory of the King's acts. It introduces as well the question about the present and future role of the monarchy in European Union.