Europe’s ‘election of the year’ grinds into gear

THE focus of much of Europe in summer turns to Spain – which boasts the eurozone’s fourth-largest economy – given that it is one of the leading tourist destinations in the region. However, two major political events are intensifying the focus on the country at the moment.

Spain is gearing up for the most important national election in Europe this year, a “snap” ballot to be held in late July. At the same time, Madrid is also preparing to host the next six-month presidency of the EU starting on Jul 1.

This rotating position does not carry executive powers, per se, but allows the appointed EU state to set the agenda, host meetings, steer negotiations, draft compromise texts, organise votes and speak vis-a-vis the other EU institutions.