Spain Pushes EU to End Seasonal Time Changes Amid Mixed Expert Views

Spain is spearheading a movement supported by the European Commission to abolish seasonal clock changes across the European Union by 2026. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez argues the current biannual adjustment is outdated, offers no real energy savings, and negatively impacts health. Surveys reinforce this stance, with two-thirds of Spaniards favoring year-round summer time and 84% of Europeans opposing clock changes in a 2018 consultation. EU Commission Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen has backed Spain’s proposal, seeking consensus among member states, although some countries like Italy remain skeptical about the practicality of ending the time change.

Spain’s government has left open which permanent time—winter or summer—would be adopted, with experts and authorities debating the optimal choice. The upcoming seasonal change this weekend highlights the urgency of the debate as the current schedule will run only until October 2026. However, some experts like José María Martín Olalla warn that maintaining the time change acts as a crucial social and physiological buffer, adapting work schedules to significant natural light variations throughout the year. This perspective contrasts with the majority public opinion and political momentum seeking to eliminate the tradition.

The 2018 European Parliament effort to end seasonal time shifts stalled due to lack of member state consensus. Now, with Spain and countries such as Finland, Poland, Germany, and Denmark pushing for change, a breakthrough may be imminent. Balancing regional daylight needs and health considerations will be critical as the EU negotiates a unified approach to this long-debated issue.