Margarita Robles Fernández

Margarita Robles Fernández
Ministerio de Defensa

Margarita Robles Fernández is the current Minister of Defence of Spain, a position she has held since June 2018. Born in León in 1956, she earned her Law degree from the Central University of Barcelona. She entered the judicial profession through the 27th Promotion of Judges and Prosecutors, graduating at the top of her class.

Throughout her judicial career, she held various positions, including judge and magistrate in Balaguer, San Feliú de Llobregat, and Bilbao. In 1981, she joined the Provincial Court of Barcelona, becoming the first woman to achieve this rank in Spain. Later, in 1991, she was appointed President of the same court, again breaking barriers as the first woman to hold this role.

In politics, Robles has played significant roles, serving as Secretary of State for the Interior under Felipe González’s government and as spokesperson for the Socialist Parliamentary Group in the Spanish Congress. As Minister of Defence, she has led key initiatives such as modernizing Spain’s Armed Forces and overseeing the country’s participation in international missions.

Beyond her work in defense, Robles has been a strong advocate for justice and equality. She has consistently pushed for greater representation of women in leadership roles and has promoted gender equality policies within the institutions she oversees. Her dedication to these causes highlights her commitment to progress and inclusivity.