Spain has announced a groundbreaking initiative to legalize the status of 900,000 undocumented migrants in response to the increasing number of arrivals to the Canary Islands. Over the next three years, Spain aims to issue 300,000 visas annually to migrants already within its borders, providing them with legal pathways to integrate into the labor market.
This move addresses Spain’s demographic challenges, such as an aging workforce, while also responding to the humanitarian crisis faced by migrants. The Canary Islands, located off Morocco’s Atlantic coast, have seen record numbers of migrants arriving by boat this year. However, the journey remains perilous, with aid organizations estimating that nearly 1,000 lives are lost each month during the crossing.
While Spain is committed to legalizing undocumented migrants already in the country, it is also taking measures to reduce new arrivals. Enhanced patrols along the African Atlantic coast and strengthened partnerships with countries like Mauritania and Senegal are part of these efforts. Agreements, such as Spain’s Circular Migration Programme with nations like Gambia, aim to create safe and legal migration channels while curbing irregular migration.
Despite these efforts, tensions have risen on the Canary Islands, with local protests opposing the government’s plans. The surge in migrants has highlighted the strain on local infrastructure and social services, prompting calls for comprehensive solutions.
Unlike many European Union nations adopting stricter migration policies due to rising support for right-wing politics, Spain’s approach reflects a different path. It emphasizes integration and cooperation with African nations, aiming to balance humanitarian concerns with domestic labor needs.