SPAIN

• Legal framework:

Spanish Constitution approved, ratified and sanctioned on 27/12/1978

Available at https://noticias.juridicas.com/base_datos/Admin/constitucion.html

Article 21.

1. The right to peaceful and unarmed assembly is recognized. The exercise of this right shall not require prior authorization.
2. The authorities shall be informed in advance of meetings to be held in public places and of demonstrations; they may prohibit them only if there are well-founded reasons for foreseeing that public order will be disturbed, endangering persons or property.

Article 22.

1. The right of association is recognized.
2. Associations which pursue ends or use means defined as constituting a crime are illegal.
3. Associations formed on the basis of the present article shall be entered in a register for the sole purpose of publicity.
4. Associations may only be dissolved or their activities suspended by virtue of a reasoned judicial decision.
5. Secret associations and those of a paramilitary nature are prohibited.

• Legislative framework:

Organic Law 1/2002, of March 22, regulating the right of association.

It should be noted that this provision abrogates the former Law 191/1964, of December 24, regulating Associations. This Organic Law develops the right of association recognized in article 22 of the Spanish Constitution, and includes all non-profit associations, provided they are not subject to a specific associative regime. However, this rule does not apply to trade unions, among other organizations to which their specific legislation applies.