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All adults will be required to provide “personal services” to the state if a crisis is ever declared in Spain, according to the reform of the National Security Law being prepared by the government.

The draft legislation – which incorporates lessons learned during the coronavirus pandemic – indicates that all citizens, without exception, must follow the orders and instructions of the relevant authorities if a state of crisis – or “situation of interest to national security” as it is termed in the document – is declared.

The reform also states that authorities can temporarily requisition all types of assets, take over or temporarily occupy those that are needed and suspend all activity. Citizens who are economically harmed by these actions have the right to compensation, according to the document. In its preliminary version, the bill does not include compensation for people whose services are required by the state.

It is expected that the type of services required and material requisitioned will depend on the type of crisis, in other words, whether it is a health, environmental or economic emergency – although this is not explicitly stated in the reform. The text, however, does make it clear that the measures adopted will be gradual, proportional to the situation and only in place until the crisis is overcome.

The document adds that business and legal entities will also be required to work with authorities to overcome the crisis, whether materially or by providing services. Media communication companies must also work with the relevant authorities to publish information aimed at preventing the crisis or serving an operational purpose.