This edited volume examines the political, social, and economic developments in contemporary Spain, with a particular focus on the period of the Socialist government (2008-11), the 2011 elections, and the challenges facing Spain and the new Popular Party government.

Politics and Society in Contemporary Spain offers a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of Spain today. Focusing on the second term of Socialist Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, the dramatic defeat of the Socialists in the 2011 elections and the alternation of power to the conservative Popular Party, it underscores Spain's deep economic and political crisis. The contributors analyze Spain's political parties, parliamentary dynamics, territorial politics, economy and labor market. Additionally, they examine the relationship between the government and the labor unions, the 'indignant' protest movement, and the Catholic Church, as well as policy developments related to gender equality and the welfare state.