There are some parallels between the reign of Felipe VI, which starts today, and that of his father Don Juan Carlos, who abdicated the throne yesterday. Foremost, both kings began their rule during an economic and political crisis. But deep down, the similarities are not exact. The economic and political climate of Spain when it was coming out of the Franco dictatorship is vastly different than the situation in modern Spain.
Today, we have a free-market economy and a welfare state built on strong efforts from a Spanish people that is looking to its leaders for explanations about how they have managed the economy and taxes. What is comparable is that Don Juan Carlos had to win the approval of Spanish citizens, and his son will have to do the same. Felipe VI takes the throne following a series of embarassing scandals for the royal family. His first task as king is to restore the position's credibility by making sure that he and the rest of the royal family set a strong example. If he can, this will help the family if Judge Castro decides to sentence Princess Cristina. This incident made the royal family become more transparent with its accounts, which is an important step toward modernizing the monarchy.
Considering other key aspects such as the economic crisis or the Catalonia conflict, the King can mediate but not control. Felipe VI should help to recharge political life in Spain and improve our image abroad. Beyond the monarchy or the national government, our citizens need to demand efficient and capable institutions that provide stability and permanence in our country.
