In Europe, there has long been concern about the large number of non-EU migrants. Spain, somewhat later as a host country, considers it among its top concerns, as 52% of Spaniards believe there are too many immigrants. It is already considered a problem of the European Union.
However, reality prevails. The old continent in general and our country in particular have negative demographic growth (more people die than are born). If we want to continue growing, maintain our standard of living, and have workers to meet our present and future demands, we need immigration. The public pension system can only be maintained with many active workers contributing.
It is generally recognized that the immigrant workforce has been a positive factor in the good performance of the Spanish economy. GDP grew by 3.2% in 2024 (leading Europe) and unemployment was at 10.6%, a figure not seen since 2007. The last few years have been of constant growth.
If we contextualize this labor aspect in our Island, we find that there is a high demand for labor with different qualifications and, despite the strong immigration, it is difficult to fill all the jobs. Meanwhile, the percentage of unemployed is over 10% (more than 7000 people). This paradoxical situation is difficult to explain and even harder to understand.
This demographic phenomenon of migration, seen from the host country, also has some negative aspects. Many migrants come with a temporary visa, without a work permit or documents that allow them professional activity. However, as soon as they arrive, they seek employment and remain for years in labor and fiscal clandestinity. They do not contribute or clearly contribute to the national wealth, they only favor those who hire them without paying the corresponding costs. Then they bring their families, who resume the same process. We must end abuses in the health system, education, and social benefits.
Against illegal immigration, there is legal immigration. Act, in some way, in the countries of origin, initial training of workers, both in the future performance and in values, norms, and customs of the host society. Bring the necessary labor with the ideal profiles and the proper quality. We consider migration a problem, but it is also an opportunity for the future.
We must treat this issue as a matter of state. Face it and not use it as a political weapon. We have to stop being hypocritical. Spain can and should integrate migrants, but in a planned and orderly manner. We must go ahead, not drag behind. Common sense provides us.