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Supreme Court applies amnesty law to eight individuals for the first time

Published July 25, 2026 at 7:32 AM UTC

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Spain's Supreme Court has applied the amnesty law for the first time, granting amnesty to eight individuals convicted for disobedience or public disorder. The decision marks a significant step in the implementation of the legislation passed last year to address crimes linked to the Catalan independence movement. The eight individuals were among those convicted for actions during the 2019 protests in Catalonia. The court's ruling follows a review of their cases under the new law, which was designed to pardon political offenses related to the secessionist push. The amnesty has been a contentious issue, with supporters arguing it is necessary for political reconciliation and opponents claiming it undermines the rule of law. The Supreme Court's move is expected to set a precedent for other pending cases. The affected individuals will have their sentences wiped and criminal records cleared. The decision has been welcomed by Catalan separatist groups but criticized by opposition parties. The government has defended the law as a tool to normalize political relations in the region.