A Questionable Proximity
One of the recurring themes in the speech of the members of the Borbónica family is their supposed desire to be close to the people. However, many of these claims appear to be mere show rather than genuine intention. The idea of proximity that they convey is perceived by many as an attempt to justify their opulent lifestyle, financed with the resources of the citizens. These moments, where they smile and take photos with their followers, are part of a very well-rehearsed script.
The Ritual of Appearance
In each institutional event that royalty presides over, it is common to see strict protocols established. A common image is the formation of a security cordon that allows Felipe, Letizia and their daughters to parade through the crowd, greeting those present. For many citizens who crowd its path, that is the most exciting moment of their lives. However, the experience of being part of that moment is very fragmented and controlled, which makes the closeness that is trying to be conveyed artificial.
Beyond the Handshake
On some occasions, emotion leads citizens to desire a more meaningful contact than a simple greeting. The desire to capture a special moment with the royal family translates into more intimate gestures, such as hugging or taking a photo in a more natural way. A notable example occurred recently when a follower of the royal family wished to immortalize her meeting with Princess Leonor. With great enthusiasm, he approached her, looking for that typical gesture where you hug her shoulders or waist, as if you were a friend.
The Reaction of the Protocol
However, this friendly interaction was caught off guard and quickly suppressed by the Royal Family’s security team. For them, physical contact with the princess is completely unacceptable, and the established protocols are unbreakable. An expert in non-verbal language has analysed the event, mentioning how the security reacted intensely to this very human gesture, as if the princess were just a distant figure.
The Question of Protocol
This expert also reflects on the strict regulations surrounding contact with royalty and points out that the protocol clearly states that citizens can join in a handshake, but physical contact beyond that is not allowed. On the other hand, there is a notable unidirectionality in this interaction: royals can touch citizens, but not the other way around. This dynamic raises questions about the supposed equality that they claim to share with citizens.
A Necessary Reflection
This contrast between closeness and distance calls into question the true values of the royal family. If they truly aspire to be seen as part of the social fabric, why do they persist in creating barriers that separate them from citizens? It is clear that the perception of proximity they wish to project is selective, triggering a debate about the very nature of citizenship and the relationship with those who are in a position of privilege.