Spanish Data Protection Agency Sanctions 'Directa' for Investigative Reporting on Undercover Police

• The Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) has initiated a sanctioning proceeding against the media outlet 'Directa' for its investigations into undercover police activity.
• The AEPD proposes a €7,000 fine and demands the removal of images, real identities, and aliases of four officers who filed complaints in early 2025.

Background on Investigation

• 'Directa' reported on police officers infiltrating social and independence movements in Catalonia and the Valencian Community between 2020 and 2023 without judicial warrants.
• The outlet argues that these reports are a legitimate exercise of the right to communicate and receive truthful information, citing the significant political and social impact of the findings.

Response and Implications

• The outlet, supported by the human rights organization Iridia, plans to submit arguments to have the proceedings archived.
• Journalist Jesús Rodríguez highlighted that unlike in Spain, similar undercover police operations in the UK (such as those reported by The Guardian or the BBC) led to criminal convictions and government apologies.
• Multiple media outlets and organizations, including La Marea, El Salto, and Crític, have signed a manifesto in support of 'Directa' following the AEPD's decision.