Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has voiced strong opposition to the European Union's deregulation agenda, arguing that it risks social protection and environmental standards, drawing parallels to the 2008 financial crisis. He advocates for "good rules" that foster competitiveness while ensuring social protection and green transition, a balance he claims Spain has achieved. Sánchez's stance, supported by Socialist MEPs, contrasts with the simplification efforts pushed by Germany, Italy, and the European Commission, which aim to reduce administrative burdens on businesses.