As Spain faces an increasing number of irregular arrivals, particularly to the Canary Islands, the challenge of managing migration has taken centre stage. In response, humanitarian organisations are urging a more human-centric approach to immigration. They emphasise the need to understand the complex realities that migrants face.
The recent diplomatic tour by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to Mauritania, Gambia, and Senegal concluded with the signing of new circular migration agreements. These agreements aim to facilitate the recruitment of workers from these countries for seasonal jobs in Spain. After which they would return to their home communities.
Trend to criminalise migration
This is the context in which Spain, in recent months, has seen a rise in xenophobic rhetoric. Moreover, particularly from right-wing and far-right factions. These frequently link migrants to crime and insecurity, often without providing any evidence to support their claims. A recent example of this was the spread of false rumours connecting immigrants to the tragic murder of a child in Mocejón, Toledo, in August. Such baseless accusations are part of a broader trend of misinformation that seeks to criminalise migration.
Immigration as one of top concers for Spanish population
The impact of these narratives is evident in public opinion. According to the July barometer from the Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas (CIS), immigration has become one of the top concerns for the Spanish population. Only unemployment, political issues, and economic problems rank higher. This growing anxiety underscores the need for a more informed and empathetic public discourse on migration.
The vulnerability of unaccompanied minors
Among the most vulnerable groups are unaccompanied migrant children, who are often dehumanised and portrayed as a threat to society. The Spanish Observatory on Racism and Xenophobia (OBERAXE) reported that in 2023, hate speech on social media disproportionately targeted these minors. Humanitarian organisations like Accem stress the importance of changing the narrative to recognize the humanity of these young migrants and understand the dire circumstances that force them to leave their homes.
“Unfortunately, some narratives aim to dehumanize these individuals, portraying them as a problem rather than asking why they risk their lives to reach our countries,” Accem stated. The organization highlights the “double vulnerability” of unaccompanied minors. They are not only forced to flee due to conflicts, political instability, or lack of opportunities but also face heightened risks of abuse and exploitation during their journeys and in host countries.
Beyond the economic perspective
Much of the public discussion around immigration focuses on its economic impact. In example, the need for 300,000 migrants annually to sustain Spain’s welfare state. Organisations like Accem argue that this view is too narrow. “Migrants bring more than just economic value; they offer different perspectives and cultural diversity that enrich our society,” the organisation noted. They also point out that many refugees and migrants who receive training and protection in Spain go on to revitalise depopulated rural areas, benefiting both the migrants and the local communities.
The importance of inclusive and respectful narratives
The Comisión Española de Ayuda al Refugiado (CEAR) echoes these sentiments, stressing the importance of inclusive and respectful narratives. “It’s crucial to recognise that migrants have the same rights as everyone else,” CEAR emphasised. The organisation warns that populist, stigmatising, and xenophobic rhetoric places migrants in a position of inferiority. Additionally, it fuels social competition, falsely blaming them for issues like job scarcity or strained public services.
Deeper analysis needed
CEAR urges a deeper analysis of the root causes of social exclusion and inequality. These problems are often linked to government investment priorities rather than the presence of migrants. “If we take a closer look, we might realise that those in more fragile situations are not responsible for the challenges others face,” they added.