Spain is increasingly looking to immigrants to help drive its economy as the country faces significant demographic challenges. Many asylum seekers, like Michael from Ghana, find themselves in northern Spain, where they have the opportunity to start anew after fleeing violence in their home countries. Michael’s journey to Spain involved perilous travel from Ghana to Morocco, followed by a dangerous crossing to the Canary Islands. Now, he sees his presence in Spain as a chance to continue his studies in human resource management and contribute positively to the society that welcomed him.
In 2023, more than 42,000 undocumented migrants arrived in Spain, marking a 59% increase compared to the previous year. Many of these new arrivals are Sub-Saharan Africans seeking safety and opportunities. Asylum seekers in Spain can begin working six months after arrival, providing them a pathway to integrate into the labor market. In the town of Villaquilambre, where many of these migrants are housed, organizations like the San Juan de Dios Foundation play a vital role in helping newcomers learn Spanish and gain necessary skills to enter the workforce.
Why is Spain’s economy turning to immigrants? The country faces a significant workforce shortage due to an aging population and a declining birth rate. According to experts, about 14.1 million Spaniards are expected to retire in the next 20 years, leaving a substantial gap in the labor market. Javier Díaz-Giménez, an economist, suggests that immigration is crucial for maintaining economic growth and supporting the pension system for retirees. Spain’s central bank has estimated that the country will need around 25 million immigrants over the next 30 years to sustain its economy.
The left-wing Spanish government is also advocating for a positive view of immigrants. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasizes that migrant workers contribute to wealth, development, and the sustainability of social security systems. A proposal is currently in parliament to legalize the status of up to 500,000 undocumented migrants, particularly from Latin America, reflecting the government’s recognition of the economic contributions immigrants can make.
Despite these efforts, public sentiment towards immigration remains mixed. A recent poll revealed that 41% of Spaniards are “very worried” about immigration, with many linking it to insecurity rather than economic progress. While the government sees immigrants as a vital resource, a significant portion of the population believes there are too many foreigners in the country.
In Villaquilambre, the success stories of migrants like Makan from Mali illustrate the positive impact of immigration on the local economy. Makan recently started working at GraMaLeon, a local business that produces marble and granite products. His employer, Ramiro Rodríguez Alaez, emphasizes the importance of migrant workers in filling labor shortages in demanding jobs that local youth are often reluctant to take.
As Spain continues to navigate its demographic challenges, the role of immigrants in the economy is becoming increasingly clear. They not only bring diversity and resilience but also provide essential manpower that helps drive the country forward. Can Spain harness this potential effectively? With the right policies and societal support, the answer is yes.