Spain’s prime minister unveils pro-immigration policy, citing moral duty and economic growth

‘I would like residents to know that this isn’t a battle between Spaniards and foreigners, or Christians and Muslims or saints and criminals. It’s a battle between reality and lies, between tales and information, between what’s within the pursuits of our society and the pursuits of some who see concern and hatred of foreigners as their solely path to energy.’

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has introduced a brand new pro-immigration coverage aimed toward addressing labour shortages and boosting financial progress. Talking in parliament, the Socialist Staff’ Get together chief stated that Spain should resolve whether or not to be “an open and affluent nation or a closed-off, poor nation.”

Sánchez reminded of Spain’s historical past underneath Francisco Franco’s dictatorship, when over two million Spaniards emigrated, and spoke of a “ethical debt” owed to previous generations.

“We Spaniards are kids of emigration, we aren’t going to be the mother and father of xenophobia,” he stated.

Lately, Spain has gone from being a low-immigration nation to having one of many highest charges of immigration within the EU. Overseas-born residents account for 18 p.c of complete inhabitants, placing the nation’s immigration inhabitants ranges much like Belgium and Germany, and better than the Netherlands, France, Italy and Denmark.

The Organisation for Financial Co-operation and Improvement (OECD), famous how the excessive stage of migration in Spain helps fill job vacancies within the labour market.

Sánchez’s coverage focuses on bettering integration sources for immigrants and streamlining residency functions. He spoke of the necessity for employees in a number of sectors, together with caregivers for the aged, programmers, technicians, and bricklayers, in addition to kids to maintain rural faculties open.

“I would like residents to know that this isn’t a battle between Spaniards and foreigners, or Christians and Muslims or saints and criminals. It’s a battle between reality and lies, between tales and information, between what’s within the pursuits of our society and the pursuits of some who see concern and hatred of foreigners as their solely path to energy,” he stated. 

Sánchez’s method contrasts with most European leaders, who’re tightening immigration insurance policies amid an increase of anti-immigration far-right assist. His place can also be anticipated to impress opposition from Spain’s far-right Vox occasion and the conservative Individuals’s Get together, each of that are more and more taking a hardline stance on immigration, consistent with broader European tendencies.