Spain Introduces Legislation to Combat Online Misinformation

Spain’s government has unveiled legislation that would extend requirements for publishing corrections to digital platforms and social media influencers, marking a significant step in the nation’s fight against online disinformation.

The draft law, which replaces outdated legislation from 1984, targets internet users with substantial followings—specifically those with more than 100,000 followers on a single platform or 200,000 across multiple platforms, according to a statement from Spain’s justice ministry.

Under the proposed regulations, these digital outlets and the platforms hosting them must implement mechanisms allowing citizens to request public corrections of false or misleading information that causes personal harm. The proposal represents a modernization of media accountability rules for the digital age.

“We’re making life more difficult for those who dedicate themselves to lies and spreading fake news every day, and, therefore, it is good news for democracy,” Justice Minister Félix Bolaños said during a press conference announcing the measure.

A key innovation in the proposed law is removing the requirement that correction requests be directed to an outlet’s director. Bolaños explained this change addresses the practical difficulty of identifying leadership figures within many “pseudo media” organizations operating online.

The explosion of social media platforms in recent years has created an environment where unverified information can reach massive audiences with limited oversight. This phenomenon has raised significant concerns about regulatory gaps and the proliferation of misinformation that can damage reputations and mislead the public.

Spain’s consumer rights association FACUA has welcomed the announcement, stating the proposed law would empower individuals to “undertake measures in defense of their honor” when targeted by false information.

The legislation comes amid heightened tensions between Spain’s Socialist-led government and certain digital media outlets. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s administration has repeatedly criticized online platforms for spreading what it characterizes as politically motivated “filth” targeting the prime minister and his family members.

The battle against disinformation forms a central component of the government’s broader “democratic renewal” initiative launched earlier this year. This push gained urgency after a judge began investigating allegations of corruption and influence peddling involving Sánchez’s wife, Begoña Gómez. Notably, the group with far-right connections that submitted the complaint against Gómez later acknowledged it was based on unverified media reports.

The timing of the legislation has raised questions about whether it represents a genuine effort to combat misinformation or potentially serves political interests. Critics may view the measure as an attempt to shield government officials from scrutiny, while supporters argue it represents a necessary modernization of media regulations for the digital era.

Spain’s approach parallels similar efforts across Europe to regulate online content and hold digital platforms accountable. The European Union has implemented the Digital Services Act, which imposes new responsibilities on tech companies regarding content moderation and transparency.

Before becoming law, the bill must complete a public consultation phase and gain parliamentary approval. The legislative process will likely involve robust debate about balancing free speech protections with the need to combat harmful misinformation.

Spain’s initiative highlights the growing global challenge of regulating digital spaces where traditional journalistic standards may not apply but where information can significantly impact public discourse, personal reputations, and democratic processes.