The Spanish government is set to reform the penal code, particularly focusing on the controversial article concerning offenses against religious sentiments.

This article has historically allowed for numerous high-profile complaints but has resulted in very few convictions.

The reform aims to align the law with European standards and the European Court of Human Rights' jurisprudence.

The current law has been criticized for enabling ultra-Catholic groups to gain media attention through legal actions, despite the rarity of actual convictions.

The reform is part of a broader democratic regeneration plan that also seeks to enhance transparency in media ownership and institutional advertising.

The government, led by Pedro Sánchez, is negotiating the extent of these changes, with discussions ongoing between coalition partners PSOE and Sumar.

The proposed changes are seen as a move to bolster freedom of expression in Spain, which has faced criticism for its restrictive laws compared to other European countries.