King Felipe VI made a rare acknowledgment of abuses during Spain’s colonial past, noting that while historical laws were intended to offer protection, they often resulted in exploitation and injustice. Speaking in Madrid, he said such actions, when viewed through modern values, cannot be a source of pride.

At its peak between the 16th and 18th centuries, Spain controlled a vast global empire spanning multiple continents, including much of Latin America. The period was marked by forced labour, land seizures, and violence against Indigenous communities, leaving a legacy that continues to shape international relations today.

The remarks come amid ongoing tensions with Mexico over historical accountability. While past leaders like Andrés Manuel López Obrador have called for formal apologies, Spain has not issued one. The issue has strained diplomatic ties, with recent disagreements highlighting the continued sensitivity surrounding colonial history.

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