Signal Spain's data protection agency probes Interior Ministry journalist ideology dossier

Summary

Spain's Data Protection Agency launched an official investigation into a 54-page dossier prepared by the Interior Ministry's communications office. The dossier classified 280 journalists, commentators, politicians and experts by their perceived political ideology. Labels used in the document included controversial journalist, independent, far right, disinformation, and clearly left wing and supports the government. The investigation focuses on GDPR provisions governing the lawfulness, scope and legal basis for processing sensitive personal data. The Interior Ministry says the dossier dates to February 2024 and was intended solely for internal consultation, without any intent to censor or restrict journalists. The case has triggered a broader press-freedom controversy in Spain.