Spanish Language, Conflicts, and Diplomacy: A Discussion-Provoking Encounter

Dear readers, today we discuss an event that has garnered significant interest in the world of the Spanish language and beyond. The 10th International Congress of the Spanish Language was held, an occasion usually marked by great unity and celebration for the Hispanophone community. However, this year, the atmosphere was a bit more tense than usual. 🇪🇸🗣️

An Anticipated Meeting and a Shadow of Conflict

For the first time in four days, the directors of the Instituto Cervantes, Luis García Montero, and the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE), Santiago Muñoz Machado, found themselves at the same event. And it wasn't a casual encounter, but the 10th International Congress of the Spanish Language, held in Arequipa, Peru, from October 14th to 17th, 2025. As you may know, or perhaps not, a few days before this congress, there had been a rather heated clash between the two. Luis García Montero had criticized the RAE, describing it as being in the hands of an "expert in managing affairs from his study," while the RAE had expressed its "absolute repulsion" for what it termed an "aggression" by the philologist and poet Montero.

"There Will Be Time to Talk Later"

Facing journalists, both Montero and Muñoz Machado attempted to defuse the situation and avoided delving into the issue during the congress's presentation press conference. "The differences, which are many, we can discuss them after the congress in Spain," stated García Montero. Muñoz Machado also described such matters as an "incident," suggesting that the congress itself was the priority and that there would be time to discuss divergences later. A diplomatic move, perhaps, to avoid spoiling such an important event.

Why This Tension?

Montero's criticisms seemed to point to a perceived more managerial than academic approach in the RAE's operations. This naturally caused discontent within the Academy, which viewed Montero's words as a direct attack on its institution and autonomy. The RAE's reaction was firm, emphasizing the academic nature and reputation of their institution. It was a genuine clash between two prominent figures in the world of the Spanish language, both playing a crucial role in its preservation and dissemination.

An Important Event for the Spanish Language

Despite these tensions, the 10th International Congress of the Spanish Language is an event of great significance. It is an initiative aimed at bringing together scholars, academics, writers, and professionals to discuss the present and future of the Spanish language, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities it presents. The objective is to strengthen the bonds between countries that share this language and promote its importance globally. 🌍

What Do We Expect for the Future?

It will be interesting to see how this situation evolves. Diplomacy has prevailed for the moment, but the words spoken before the congress will not be easily forgotten. What do you think of this clash between the directors of the Instituto Cervantes and the RAE? Do you believe these divergences could influence the future of the Spanish language, or are they merely internal matters that will be resolved? I am very curious to hear your opinions in the comments! 👇

Let us continue to closely follow the developments of this story, which, beyond individual personalities, concerns the very heart of the language we so deeply cherish. The Spanish language is a precious heritage, and who better than them to guide its path? We hope that future discussions will lead to greater understanding and collaboration for the good of the language. ✨