have taken centre stage in terms of security, especially in a world that has become more interconnected, more interdependent, but also more divided. Spain’s circumstances have also changed significantly since the approval of the 2013 Strategy, at a time when it was in the midst of a severe economic crisis with a high social cost. This crisis also had a significant impact on capacities and resources, and substantial effects on pro-independence movements, having been used as an argument to support irresponsible actions. Spain is now emerging from the crisis with economic growth, and with a renewed interest in contributing to leadership in Europe and to international peace and security, particularly in the new panorama developing around the globe. Consequently, to be able to provide this public service in the most effective way possible, Spain requires a new National Security Strategy, one that analyses the new security environment and the challenges and threats it presents, expanding upon some of the concepts and lines of action already defined in 2013. This document updates the objectives to be achieved, and thus redefines the State’s action and resources. It is, moreover, the result of a collective assessment and has been drafted seeking greater participation from society. In preparing this document, input was sought from representatives of the Administration and civil society experts. This collaborative process was coordinated by the National Security Department of the Office of the Presidency of the Government. In this way, Spain, as an open, responsible country, will be better prepared to face the major trends and changes of the current era that are transforming the security landscape. Presidency of the Government National Security Strategy 2017 17