Canarian Parliament Intensifies Activity and Social Connection

The institution aims to engage citizens and strengthen its legislative role, highlighting a significant increase in law approvals.

Generic image of a podium with a microphone in a parliament.
IA

Generic image of a podium with a microphone in a parliament.

The Parliament of Canarias has experienced a more intense legislature, closely connected to social reality, according to its presidency, which highlights increased legislative activity and efforts to bring the institution closer to citizens in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

Approaching three years in office, the presidency of the Parliament of Canarias has provided a positive assessment of parliamentary and legislative activity. A notable increase in law approvals has been highlighted, with eight relevant norms passed in 2025, surpassing figures from previous legislatures. These laws address crucial issues such as public employment, transport, and housing, seeking to respond to structural problems in the archipelago.
In addition to legislative work, special emphasis has been placed on opening the Parliament to society. Conferences and meetings on social and health issues have been organized, and innovative initiatives such as videopodcasts covering topics from child and youth mental health to water challenges in the islands have been implemented. The institution has also strengthened its external projection, assuming the presidency of the Conference of European Regional Parliaments and defending the role of regions in facing challenges such as funding and migration.

"Although the Parliament is a consolidated institution, there is still some social unawareness of its function."

the Parliament's presidency
One of the main objectives has been to bring the Parliament closer to the population, taking institutional activity to all islands. Parliamentary Tables have been held in various locations, and meetings have been conducted with diverse social groups under the project 'Listen to progress'. These actions allow for first-hand knowledge of citizens' needs and perspectives, which are then conveyed to the competent institutions.
Furthermore, accessibility for people with hearing disabilities has been improved, ensuring they can follow plenary sessions and committees. The Parliament is now considered fully accessible, and a virtual tour has been launched so that all Canarians can explore its interior and heritage. In this regard, conservation efforts have begun, such as the restoration of the coat of arms presiding over the chamber, which will be completed in August.
Despite being a consolidated institution, the need for greater institutional pedagogy is recognized so that citizens perceive the Parliament as a place where issues directly affecting their lives are debated and decided. Regarding the insular dispute, although it has not completely disappeared, it is observed that in the current Parliament, the general interest prevails over island-based confrontation. Regional parliaments, like the Canarian one, play an increasing role as a bridge between local and European levels, connecting the specific needs of outermost regions with the European Union and strengthening Canarias' presence in Europe.