MEETING WITH LEGAL PROFESSIONALS AND LEGAL INFLUENCERS AT THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

On Wednesday, 29 April, Javier Zarzalejos held a meeting with legal professionals and legal influencers at the European Parliament. The initiative was organised by MEP Adrián Vázquez and also brought together Juan Ignacio Zoido, Borja Giménez Larraz, and Maravillas Abadía. Among the participants were Juan Gonzalo Ospina, Miguel Benito Barrionuevo, and Javier Vázquez Matilla, all of whom have a significant presence on social media and specialise in various areas of law.

During the meeting, participants were briefed on the work carried out by the European institutions in the fields of justice, the rule of law, and the fight against corruption, as well as on the role of the European Parliament in safeguarding judicial independence and democratic guarantees within the European Union. The discussion also highlighted the importance of bringing European institutions closer to civil society and improving understanding of how the European Union functions among legal professionals and emerging digital communication platforms. Particular attention was given to the growing role of legal communicators and content creators in fostering public debate and promoting a strong and accessible legal culture.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange views on some of the key challenges currently facing justice systems in both Europe and Spain, particularly concerns regarding institutional politicisation, declining public trust in institutions, the fight against corruption, and the need to strengthen judicial independence and democratic quality. In this context, participants discussed the importance of preserving the separation of powers, ensuring the independence of institutions, and countering any developments that could weaken the rule of law or undermine citizens’ confidence in the democratic system.

The participants further agreed on the need to reinforce transparency, legal certainty, and respect for European standards as essential elements for safeguarding institutional stability and democratic governance.