Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is facing growing criticism for its increasing centralisation and restrictions on press access since José Manuel Albares took office. Journalists have condemned what they see as a “law of silence” within the ministry, with accusations of blacklists, limited access to diplomats, and opaque briefings. This controversy intensified after Albares was accused of barring a journalist from the ministry. Critics, including diplomats, claim that the ministry’s communication strategy is undermining transparency, weakening Spain’s diplomatic effectiveness, and fostering an atmosphere of fear. In response, the ministry denied the accusations, calling them “hoaxes,”.
Date: February 10, 2026. Source: euractiv.com