ABSTRACT
In this chapter we consider the transformation of Spain’s political parties since the restoration of democracy. We chart the changing fortunes of the parties in the elections of 1982, 1986 and 1987, and this provides the background for a closer analysis of the two most important and linked developments during the 1980s: the rise of the Socialists (PSOE), and the decline of the Communists (PCE). Finally, we assess the current state of the party system in Spain. However, we preface our discussion on political parties by attempting to define their role in the political system.
