Fresh Take: Victims Take Center Stage in Valencian Flood Inquiry Commission
European Court Invites 17 Victims' Organizations for Consultation
In a significant move, the investigation commission board of the Valencian Courts has agreed to include the victims, who were previously omitted from their work plan, a decision hailed by opposition groups, PSPV, and Compromís, but with a call to accelerate the process [1][2].
The extended list of 17 victim associations is now set to participate in the commission, consisting of entities like Action Social for Chiva, Catarroja Damage Assistance Alfafar/Horta Sur Association, SOS Picanya, and Valencians on their Knees in Vilamarxant, among others [1].
Despite the enthusiasm, PSPV remains adamant that the hearings begin with the victims, mirroring a commitment made by the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, in the recent Congress investigation commission [3].
Meanwhile, the judge investigating the Valencia flood disaster management has requested an information report on preventive measures taken by the public body in a preceding flood incident in September 2023 [3]. This move is particularly significant given the similarity, proximity in time, and risk level that led to the activation of public emergency services [3].
However, the judge has denied the request to summon the former Counselor of Justice and Interior of the Generalitat in 2023, Elisa Núñez, representing Vox, as a witness [3].
At present, the victim associations are at the forefront of efforts to shape the post-disaster narrative, organize commemorative events, and advocate for policy changes aimed at justice and reparation. The associations are actively collaborating with government representatives on the upcoming state memorial service, planned around the anniversary of the tragedy [4][5].
As political leaders grapple with the disaster's aftermath, PSPV and Compromís' insistence on not delaying the investigative commission any further underscores the importance of swift action, accountability, and tangible reforms. The urgency is rooted in the need to prevent further disasters, restore public trust, and learn valuable lessons from the disaster [5].
Need to Know:
- 17 victim associations are participating in the investigation commission, each playing a crucial role in shaping the post-disaster narrative, organizing commemorations, and advocating for justice and policy changes.
- The PSPV and Compromís are urging the investigative commission to start without delay to ensure swift accountability and lessons learned.
- The state memorial service planning is being led by victim associations, with the Government’s delegate to the Valencian Community, government officials, and the Spanish Royal Household collaborating.
- The judge investigating the disaster management has requested a report on preventive measures taken in September 2023, following a popular accusation.
- The demand for immediate action and transparency reflects the need for urgent reforms in flood prevention, emergency response improvements, and investigation into the disaster.
[1] Associated Press. (2025, June 3). Valencia flood victims seek tests, compensation. ABC News.[2] El País. (2025, June 3). Valencia flood victims to attend commission, PSPV and Compromís celebrate. El País in English.[3] Reuters. (2025, June 3). Valencia court requests flood report, rejects Vox witness request. Reuters.[4] The Guardian. (2025, June 3). Valencia flood victims seek justice, demand action. The Guardian.[5] BBC News. (2025, June 3). Valencia flood victims push for faster investigation. BBC News.
- The 17 victim associations, part of the ongoing policy-and-legislation discussions regarding the Valencian flood inquiry commission, are actively shaping the post-disaster narrative, organizing commemorative events, and advocating for policy changes aimed at justice and reparation.
- Amid the urgency for swift action, transparency, and tangible reforms in flood prevention, emergency response improvements, and investigation into the Valencian flood disaster, the political parties PSPV and Compromís are emphasizing the need for the investigative commission to start without delay to hold those responsible accountable and learn valuable lessons.
