Spain has experienced a significant demographic transformation in recent decades. On July 1, 2024, 9.04 million residents in Spain were born abroad. When combined with over two million children born in Spain to foreign mothers, more than 22% of the country’s population is of foreign origin.
This shift highlights the growing importance of migration in Spanish society, marking a stark contrast to the country’s historical patterns of emigration.
From emigration to immigration
Between the 1950s and 1970s, Spain’s migration balance was negative, with 1.5 million residents leaving the country. In 1976, fewer than 200,000 foreign residents lived in Spain, representing less than 0.5% of the population.
However, since the introduction of democracy in the late 1970s, Spain has become a destination for migrants. By 1996, 1.07 million foreign-born individuals were living in Spain. Today, that figure has multiplied nearly tenfold, reflecting the country’s rapid transformation into a hub for migration.
Who makes up Spain’s migrant population?
The foreign population in Spain is diverse, with the following key groups:
- Latin Americans: The largest group of migrants in Spain, many share linguistic and cultural ties with Spaniards.
- Europeans: This group is divided between Western Europeans, who tend to have higher socioeconomic status, and Eastern Europeans, such as Romanians, who are often employed in agriculture and domestic work.
- Africans: Primarily Moroccans, who form the third-largest group.
- Asians: Led by communities from China and Pakistan.
Geographical distribution also varies:
- Murcia has a high concentration of African migrants.
- Andalucia and Valencia are popular among European migrants.
- Ceuta and Melilla have large populations from North-West Africa.
- Barcelona hosts a significant Pakistani community.
Migration as a solution to an ageing population
Spain faces one of Europe’s lowest birth rates and an ageing population. Migration offers a potential solution to this demographic challenge.
Currently, 24.5% of Spain’s working-age population (20-64 years) is of foreign origin. In 2022, over one-third of newborns in Spain had at least one foreign-born parent, and in some provinces, this figure exceeds 50%. Migrants play a critical role in sustaining the country’s labour force and addressing population decline.
Economic and social challenges
While migration offers economic benefits, it also presents challenges. A report by the Spanish foundation NEOS estimates that migration management costs Spain over €30 billion annually, creating pressure on public services and the labour market.
The report calls for an active migration policy focused on integration and addressing social tensions. Special attention is needed for migrants from countries with different cultural and religious backgrounds, as they often face greater barriers to integration.
Spain’s position in Europe
With 18.5% of its population of foreign origin, Spain is above the EU average of 13.3%. However, it still trails behind countries like Germany (19.5%) and Belgium (19.1%), where migrants have been part of society for multiple generations.
Unlike these countries, Spain’s migration experience is relatively recent, leaving it less prepared to manage the integration of third and fourth-generation migrants.
Turning migration Into a success story
Spain’s challenge lies in leveraging migration to support its economy while fostering social cohesion. Investing in education, workforce participation, and integration of second-generation migrants is crucial.
As Spain’s population evolves, strong political leadership and coherent policies will be essential to ensure migration contributes positively to the country’s future. However, in a politically divided landscape, achieving this balance will require consensus and long-term planning.
Spain’s demographic transformation offers both opportunities and challenges, with migration set to remain a key factor in shaping its future.
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