| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
Ya está disponible nuestro informe mensual de mayo. Te ofrecemos un análisis detallado de las novedades políticas y regulatorias más relevantes en Europa y España que han marcado la agenda pública.
Si quieres estar al tanto de las últimas tendencias en asuntos públicos, comunicación institucional y políticas públicas, no te pierdas el documento completo: Newsletter mensual mayo
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
En clave electoral: repasamos los resultados de las elecciones andaluzas, con la consolidación del PP como fuerza dominante, la pérdida de apoyo del PSOE, el papel clave de Vox en la configuración de mayorías y el resultado sorprendente de Adelante Andalucía, en un contexto que redefine las dinámicas de representación en el Parlamento andaluz.
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
Ya está disponible nuestro informe mensual de abril. Te ofrecemos un análisis detallado de las novedades políticas y regulatorias más relevantes en Europa y España que han marcado la agenda pública.
Si quieres estar al tanto de las últimas tendencias en asuntos públicos, comunicación institucional y políticas públicas, no te pierdas el documento completo: Newsletter mensual abril de 2026
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
En clave electoral: analizamos los principales elementos de las elecciones nacionales húngaras del pasado 12 de abril y sus relevantes implicaciones tanto para el país como para la Unión Europea.
Descubre las claves electorales aquí: informe Hungría
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
Ya está disponible nuestro informe mensual de marzo. Te ofrecemos un análisis detallado de las novedades políticas y regulatorias más relevantes en Europa y España que han marcado la agenda pública.
Si quieres estar al tanto de las últimas tendencias en asuntos públicos, comunicación institucional y políticas públicas, no te pierdas el documento completo: Newsletter mensual marzo de 2026
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
Estudiamos las causas de la escalada en Oriente Medio, analizamos las consecuencias del conflicto para España y detallamos las medidas adoptadas por el gobierno en el Plan Integral de Respuesta a la Crisis. Puedes ver el informe aquí: Informe Irán
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
Ya está disponible nuestro informe mensual de febrero. Te ofrecemos un análisis detallado de las novedades políticas y regulatorias más relevantes en Europa y España que han marcado la agenda pública.
Si quieres estar al tanto de las últimas tendencias en asuntos públicos, comunicación institucional y políticas públicas, no te pierdas el documento completo: Newsletter mensual febrero de 2026
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
En clave electoral: Repasamos los detalles de la convocatoria electoral en Aragón y ofrecemos un análisis de los resultados, las principales medidas de los candidatos y los posibles nuevos escenarios que se abren ahora, tras el ascenso de Vox, el retroceso histórico del PSOE y el insuficiente resultado del PP.
Descubre las claves electorales aquí: Informe electoral Aragón
| By Maria Jose Cuerva | 0 Comments
La inestabilidad política, la presión regulatoria, la inseguridad energética, la rápida adopción de la inteligencia artificial y la fragmentación del ecosistema mediático han dejado de ser riesgos emergentes para convertirse en parte del día a día de las organizaciones. Así lo confirma el Global Trends Report 2026 de Grayling, elaborado a partir de una investigación con CEOs y altos directivos de sectores clave como energía, tecnología, finanzas, retail, salud y comunicación.
El informe dibuja un entorno empresarial marcado por una presión creciente y una mayor exposición reputacional, pero también por la resiliencia y un optimismo prudente. Aunque el 57% de los líderes españoles considera que las amenazas para el negocio aumentarán en 2026, el 90% se muestra optimista respecto a sus perspectivas de crecimiento.
La inteligencia artificial emerge como uno de los principales factores de oportunidad y riesgo, especialmente en términos de confianza, gobernanza y reputación, junto con la ciberseguridad y la gestión de la energía. Concretamente, el 82% de los consultados consideran a la IA como un riesgo social y el 90% pide una mayor regulación. En este contexto, el informe subraya la necesidad de pasar de una gestión reactiva de las crisis a una visión estratégica basada en la anticipación, la transparencia y el fortalecimiento de la gobernanza.
De cara a 2026, la credibilidad, la claridad y el enfoque a largo plazo se consolidan como elementos esenciales para gestionar la incertidumbre, proteger la reputación y generar valor sostenible en un entorno cada vez más complejo.
Informe global de tendencias 2026
| By Nadia Padayachy | 0 Comments
So, there we have it. After months of leaks, pre-briefings and general hysteria, the Chancellor has finally delivered her 2025 Budget. And it was…. fine?
It should be no surprise that the leakiest Budget in living memory (quite the achievement considering the dripping tap of pre-Budget announcements in recent years) was preceded by the mother of all leaks. The OBR’s blunder left the absurd and unprecedented situation of political analysts reading out the Chancellor’s Budget in TV studios before Reeves had even stood up. This was a huge gift to the Opposition, who could spend the 70 minutes or so that the Chancellor was at the despatch box browsing the document to inform their response.
The biggest fallout from this sorry affair might just be the beginning of the end for the OBR. As all sufferers of premature e-publication will know, the red faces and numerous mumbled and sheepish apologies will not be able to turn back the clock. This monumental error could give the Chancellor just the excuse she needs to lay to rest the much loathed (in Labour circles at least) quango. Watch this space.
And to the content of the Budget itself. We were promised a smorgasbord of taxes – and this was most certainly delivered. There was a mansion tax (avoid Myleene Klass today if at all possible), continuation of frozen income tax thresholds, gambling taxes, an excise duty for electric cars and a pensions raid – to name just a few! All this allowed the Chancellor to increase spending and give herself that much treasured headroom. This is part of her bid to try and keep her promise to business (at the second time of asking) that she won’t be coming back for more money; absolutely crucial as we head towards a General Election.
In the immediate aftermath, it feels less of a ‘smorgashambles’ and more of a ‘bitty Budget’ designed to keep the show on the road… at least for now. In truth, it’s hard to tell who this Budget was for. There was certainly some red meat for Labour backbenchers and members alike with the abolition of the hated two-child cap. The more cynical among us might believe this is being done with one eye on a leadership challenge in May, and perhaps that’s what this Budget was really about. There’s also some more cash for the devolved nations, just as we’re heading towards the polls.
But aside from that, not many will be walking away with a spring in their step. Businesses are still lumped with an ever-increasing tax bill and the threat of rising business costs. The biggest threat to the Government will be the extent to which the Opposition and right-wing press land their accusations that the Budget is a win for ‘Benefits Street’ – especially as welfare spending is now set to balloon by £73bn to over £400bn in the next five years.
So, how will this Budget really land once the dust has settled? The wonks and the hacks are already pouring over the details in a bid to find a pasty tax moment – all the more possible when we consider the sheer volume of taxes being handed out, which naturally increases the likelihood of unintended consequences. But if Reeves manages to avoid any hidden pitfalls, she and her team might consider this a job well done. Backbenchers somewhat happy, devolved leaders able to brag on the election trail that they secured more cash for their respective country’s coffers, and members getting their biggest wish granted, may just be enough to stave off rumoured leadership coups for now. But did this Budget comprehensively land the Labour vision for growth? On that metric, there a still a big job to be done.
To get in touch with our Public Affairs team, please contact: leo.watson@grayling.com.
| By Nadia Padayachy | 0 Comments
Over 106 years of Labour party dominance in the south Wales constituency of Caerphilly came to a humbling end on Thursday, October 23, as the party placed third with their vote share falling to around 11%. Plaid Cymru’s Lindsay Whittle, appropriately nicknamed “Mr Caerphilly», won the seat on his 14th attempt, securing 47.5% of the vote and a 3,848 majority over second-placed Llŷr Powell of Reform UK. Although there had been speculation that the result would be a close fight between Plaid and Reform, the outcome, on a high turnout of over 50%, was far more decisive than many had predicted.
The result surprised many within Welsh politics and seemed to catch the UK-wide media even more off guard. Reports suggest that a Plaid victory was not seriously considered by national outlets. One image that captures the media’s focus is BBC Wales’ Teleri Glyn Jones interviewing Lindsay Whittle alone moments after his win, while Llŷr Powell was surrounded by microphones.
This focus on Reform is unlikely to change in the lead-up to the Senedd Election in May. Many have suggested that Plaid Cymru, on current polling the most likely party to lead the next government, must be bold and vocal in presenting itself as an alternative to Welsh Labour. Although others warn that relying on a cautious strategy, similar to that used by Keir Starmer, could prove damaging. Momentum is crucial in elections; voters are more likely to support a party that looks likely to win. Plaid now faces the challenge of maintaining this momentum and positioning itself in place of Labour as the party of progressive politics in Wales. Following its by-election victory, Plaid will likely face increased media attention and scrutiny, which could prove both a curse and a blessing for the party in the months ahead. Victory is not guaranteed, and not every constituency will have a candidate with the local presence and recognition of Lindsay Whittle, which was a significant factor in this result.
The Caerphilly result, meanwhile, should serve as a warning to the central Labour Party and those close to Keir Starmer. While much attention has been given to Reform UK, Labour appear to be losing voters to parties on the left, namely Plaid Cymru in Wales and the Greens and Your Party in other parts of the UK. The result suggests that Labour’s overall strategy may need urgent reassessment, while some sources within the party believe this may come too late to boost the party’s flagging poll ratings in Wales.
Prior to the election, some had suggested that Plaid outperforming Labour but losing to Reform could benefit the party in the long term, as progressive voters might see it as the only viable option to block Reform from office. However, it appears tactical voting played a key role in the final by-election result. This tactic will not be possible at the next election under the new proportional system. With six members elected in each of the sixteen new super-constituencies, every vote will carry more weight. There are further potential unintended consequences – a Labour voter switching to Plaid to block Reform could inadvertently cost Labour a sixth seat, ultimately benefiting Reform. If Labour’s vote share here is replicated across Wales next spring, the party may struggle to win any seats in many constituencies. This scenario might also make it harder for Plaid Cymru to form a government with Labour as a junior partner.
Reform’s failure to win the Caerphilly seat ultimately means that its Welsh policies and politicians will receive less scrutiny on the floor of the Senedd and the wider media in the lead up to May. This could benefit the party, allowing it to keep its UK leader, Nigel Farage, at the centre of its Senedd campaign.
Turnout will undoubtedly be a major factor in the next election. If Reform is to convert its strong polling numbers into electoral success, it will need to mobilise its supporters more effectively than it did ahead of last week’s vote. In Caerphilly, the party reportedly encouraged only 63 new constituents to register to vote, suggesting its ground operation needs improvement. Predictions of Reform winning three or more seats in the new super-constituencies may seem optimistic, unless the party’s campaign infrastructure improves.
The countdown to the next Senedd Election has truly kicked off, with only six months until polling day. As the Senedd expands to include 96 members and Labour’s dominance in Wales looks like it could be coming to an end, now is a highly advantageous moment for organisations that have yet to engage with Plaid Cymru and Reform UK to do so. Both parties are currently in the midst of their manifesto development processes and are keen to listen and engage, presenting an ideal opportunity to set out your key asks for the next Welsh Government.
If your organisation would like to talk about engaging in Welsh politics ahead of next year’s Senedd election. Contact Grayling’s Public Affairs team in Cardiff or reach out to: benjamin.hitchings@grayling.com.
| By Nadia Padayachy | 0 Comments
Let’s set the scene
With just seven months until the Senedd election and a tightly contested by-election in Caerphilly looming, Plaid Cymru’s Annual Conference arrived at a pivotal moment. Delegates gathered in Swansea with a sense of momentum and anticipation, thanks to recent polling indicating a shift in government from May 2026 for the first time since devolution. This year marked a noticeable shift from those that came before, with a noticeable surge in attendance from members, charities, and first-time participants, all keen to engage with what could be the future leadership of Wales.
The conference kicked off with some unexpected drama, with Friday’s two renewable-focused fringes disrupted by a delegate who voiced strong opposition to renewables and was subsequently escorted out. Alongside Saturday’s protest, this incident reflected some of the internal tensions within the party around energy policy. Plaid remains firmly committed to the net zero transition, but the party has been clear that community buy-in is key to these ambitions. The events served as a reminder that Plaid faces a difficult balancing act between its net zero ambitions and the interests of local communities, especially in its rural heartlands.
Rhun ap Iorwerth takes to the stage
As expected, Rhun ap Iorwerth’s speech sought to reach out to disillusioned Welsh voters, driving home the point that Plaid is the only viable, progressive alternative to Labour and pledging to restore public trust. He accused Reform – whom he branded as the “ultra-Conservatives” – of using the Senedd as a “plaything” to gain an “electoral foothold”. He went on to reiterate what he said was the need to free Wales from the “shackles” of a Welsh Labour government. The party leader also dismissed suggestions that Labour is the only party with the experience to govern.
In terms of new pledges, the Leader’s announcement of an extended free childcare commitment, which he identified as a major barrier to parents returning to work, was a hit with the crowd. While the proposal was well received, its five-year rollout means the impact will be gradual.
Rhun ap Iorwerth stuck to his commitment to hold off on the independence vote until after the party’s first term, instead promising to establish a Standing Commission to explore independence. Members later voted on a motion for this commission to engage citizens, research issues of relevance and ultimately prepare a White Paper on an independent Wales. With this clear step-change from his predecessor, Rhun ap Iorwerth appears to have been attempting to strike a balance between appealing to indie sceptics, while not alienating Plaid’s key supporters.
Plaid’s priorities and pledges
In terms of wider pledges, the number of announcements was smaller than some may have expected. On Saturday, Education spokesperson Cefin Campbell set out the party’s new national mission on literacy and numeracy. Besides this, there were few other new announcements – and notably nothing new on the economy, housing or health. Rhun ap Iorwerth did have a line ready to defend this, however. In a Q&A with Llywydd Elin Jones, he reminded naysayers that Plaid has been steadily unveiling pledges over recent months. It is also worth noting that, compared to Wales’ wider parties, Plaid is considerably ahead of the game across both the manifesto development and candidate selection process.
Speaking of candidates, Caerphilly councillor Lindsay Whittle – a top contender in next week’s by-election – took to the stage on Saturday to encourage voters to stand against the “fancy men from London in their posh suits”. Besides the warm welcome and his striking red suit, he spoke of the need to persuade Reform voters on the doorstop, rather than insult them.
But what about big business?
Despite the positive energy throughout this well-attended conference, one absence was hard to ignore: Plaid’s offer for big business and investors. While some large corporates were attending as observers, the party’s agenda leaned heavily toward third sector, public sector and community-based topics, with limited space for corporate engagement – beyond the key players in renewables. Conversations in the margins indicate that Plaid is keen to tell a strong story on the Welsh economy – indicating that, potentially, there’s a clear opportunity for businesses keen to invest in Wales to help the party shape its messaging over the coming months.
Interested in discussing your engagement strategy ahead of next year’s Senedd election? Please contact Grayling’s Public Affairs team in Cardiff or reach out directly to kate.mitchell@grayling.com.