Sacrifice, Sequence, and Strength in Successful Dual Transitions: Lessons from Spain

This article presents a model for successful dual transitions derived from an analysis of the Spanish experience of 1977-1986. I argue that the successful implementation of structural adjustment programs depends on two factors: one, a reform sequence that delays deepened structural adjustment until after the consolidation of democracy seems assured, and two, a strong ruling party. In the Spanish case and in other successful dual transitions discussed here, the party that won the first democratic elections concentrated on consolidating democracy while the party that won the second national elections concentrated on economic reforms.