Last month, the Spanish government initiated preliminary proceedings to seek the legal dissolution of the Francisco Franco National Foundation (FNFF). 

Now, if you are unfamiliar with the situation about how any glorification of the ex-dictator and his regime is viewed in Spain… it is illegal, which has led to street names being changed and statues removed, etc. 

Readers might also remember that his remains were removed from the Valle de Los Caidos (built with slave labour under Franco) and handed over to the family. 

So it is only logical that the Paco Fan club should get its marching orders, which will not go down well with the Spanish right wing, much less the far right (Vox). 

The FNFF was accordingly notified on the 31st of October this year about the legal move. As of late November 2025, the process entered the period for the FNFF to submit legal arguments and evidence in its defence. The foundation was given 10 business days to respond to the notification.

Ministry sources estimate the judicial process will take at least nine months to conclude, possibly reaching a final court decision in mid-to-late 2026. 

Now, considering that the said foundation glorifies Francoism, extolling the 1936 a military coup and the dictatorship, that followed it, as well as considering the incitement of hatred or violence against Franco’s victims, to be cool for cats… allegedly, they appear to be batting on a losing wicket.

The FNFF argues that it has cultural, historical, biographical, and documentary aims, the Government is having none of it, which is hardly surprising, as it participates in the current cultural and political debate in Spain to “highlight the life and work of Francisco Franco and the Spain he created.”

Presently, the Paco fan club enjoys tax incentives and benefits for receiving donations simply by virtue of being a foundation and protected under this law, meaning, dear readers, that you are indirectly and unwittingly, (hopefully) financing this foundation. 

The Goverment, however, is certain that the FNFF will find a way to establish itself under another structure that ensures its continuity.

Finally, sources at the Ministry of Culture have indicated that when the time comes (when the judges receive the initiating order) they will request precautionary measures to prevent the foundation from accessing the historical archive or destroying evidence.

(News: Spain)

Keywords: Franco Regime, Franco Appreciation Foundation, Illegalised, Francisco Franco National Foundation

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