Spain Faces Strategic Foreign Policy Challenges Amid Global Uncertainty in 2026

Spain is grappling with significant foreign policy challenges in 2026 as the international order experiences internal dismantling and traditional alliances show signs of weakening. According to the Munich Security Report 2026, the United States' shift towards a "wrecking-ball politics" approach, characterized by destruction rather than reform, has destabilized predictable rules upon which Spain heavily depends. This has heightened Spain's vulnerabilities across four critical domains: security, economy, technology, and multilateralism.

Security risks are particularly acute due to instability in Spain’s southern neighborhood, especially the Sahel and Maghreb regions, a consequence of reduced U.S. commitments and Europe's focus on eastern front tensions. Economically, Spain faces challenges from a shift away from a rules-based international trade system towards coercive bilateralism, which threatens its open trade-dependent economy. The ongoing regulatory disputes between the U.S. and the EU in the technological sector further complicate Spain's position, as the country lacks a robust alternative to EU regulations. Additionally, Spain's traditional role as a bridge-builder in international cooperation is at risk, with weakened multilateral frameworks potentially diminishing its diplomatic influence.

Meanwhile, longstanding reliance on NATO and the EU in Spain's foreign policy—rooted historically since the Franco regime—now appears increasingly precarious. There are rising doubts over NATO's reliability, especially regarding collective defense commitments in potential conflicts involving countries such as Morocco. Similarly, internal divisions within the EU have cast uncertainty over its solidarity and effectiveness. In response, Emilio Lamo de Espinosa proposes a "Plan B" strategy that entails forging bilateral alliances with neighboring countries and key global powers, alongside bolstering Spain’s military capabilities, particularly in the Mediterranean region, which faces mounting socio-economic and political challenges.

Overall, these developments underscore the urgent need for Spain to reassess and diversify its foreign policy approach. The Munich Security Report emphasizes that Spain must strengthen its commitment to effective multilateralism while aligning its domestic and foreign policies to maintain credibility. As the international system evolves rapidly, Spain is urged not merely to adapt but to proactively shape its strategic environment to safeguard national security and maintain global relevance.