Monarchy of Spain

The King (Spanish: Rey ) is the head of state of Spain. Its functions are mainly in the second title from the crown of the Constitution of December 27, 1978 laid down (Article 56 to 65).

See also: List of rulers of Spain

Position in the constitutional structure

The king as head of state is a symbol of unity and stability in Spain. He is particularly a role as guardian and facilitator of the constitutional office management by the state organs to. In exercising this role succeeded King Juan Carlos I put down the coup of 23 February 1981 with the mere authority of his office.

Furthermore, the king comes to the representation of the State abroad, in which case special attention to the nations of the history Community ( Comunidad Histórica ) Spain is placed.

The king himself is not subject to accountability to other constitutional bodies. However, his official acts require up to transactions of the royal family itself be countersigned by the Prime Minister or the Minister, which in turn bear the responsibility.

At his inauguration, the King makes before the Cortes Generales an oath of office, which includes in particular the respect for citizens' rights and the legal status of the Autonomous Communities.

Tasks

The king come to the following tasks:

• Signing and promulgation of laws
• Adoption of the regulations adopted in the Council of Ministers
• Convene and dissolve the Cortes Generales
• Heading of referendums
• Proposal, appointment and dismissal of the Prime Minister (Presidente del Gobierno )
• Appointment and dismissal of the Prime Minister proposed by the government members
• Award of civil and military offices
• Awarding of honors and awards
• Information about the affairs of the state, which he can participate at the request of the Prime Minister at meetings of the Government
• Supreme command of the armed forces
• Exercise of grace right
• Patronage of the royal academies
• Accreditation of ambassadors
• Ratification of treaties
• Declaration of war and conclusion of peace

Regency

During the minority or permanent incapacity for office of the king, a regent is appointed.

As Regent of the minor King are provided in the following order:

Regent of the office incompetent king is the respective Prince of Asturias; for the duration of the minority that is in turn replaced by the specific provisions of a minor king rules through a regent.

The regency office is open to adults only Spaniards. It is administered on behalf of the king. The Regent does at the office to be paid by the King oath of office, which is extended to loyalty to the king.

For a minor king beyond a guardian is appointed. The first order is up to the will of the late king. In the absence of testamentary disposition of the father or the mother is determined to be the guardian. Absence of these, the appointment of a guardian is up to the Cortes. Only the parents and ancestors of the king must unite regency and guardianship in itself. The guardianship is incompatible, moreover, with every political office.

The Queen

The Queen and the Prince Consort is excluded from constitutional responsibilities, where she (he ) does not exercise the regency.

Succession

The office of king is hereditary. The succession regime the primogeniture, favoring the male lines. see: Succession (Spain )

The heir to the throne ( Prince of Asturias ) ensure that, when he came of age the oath of office of the king, which is extended to loyalty to the king.

Title

The constitution of the king of the title Rey de España, ie king of Spain. In addition, the king may continue the traditional title of the Crown.

• King (Spain )