Iglesias will play key role in Spain's elections

Subject

Profile of Pablo Iglesias.

Significance

Pablo Iglesias consolidated his leadership of Podemos during the second half of 2014 and is leading a major challenge to both the governing Popular Party (PP) and the opposition Socialist Party (PSOE) in this year's local, regional and general elections. A specialist in political communication who became well known as a TV presenter and political chat-show participant, his personal credibility will be crucial to Podemos's performance.

Impacts

• Iglesias benefits from being a familiar face to Spaniards yet relatively new to national political life.
• At a time when nearly all institutions have been discredited in the public eye, his is the main party to offer a new start.
• He has pledged to call elections to a constituent assembly and supports Catalan demands for the 'right to decide' the relationship to Spain.