Debunking Common Myths About Immigration in Spain

Debunking Myths About Immigration in Spain

The Myth of an Immigration Invasion

When can we say objectively that there is pressure? To understand this, we must analyze the percentage of emigrants. Concepts such as open borders, migration alternatives, and family reunification are often central to these discussions.

Migration and the National Workforce

A common misconception is that migration is in competition with the national workforce, leading to the claim that "they take the jobs." In reality, migrants are often "victims" of the economic liberalism system. Many are low-skilled immigrants who take jobs that nationals refuse. These migrants often occupy the same labor stratum as other vulnerable groups, such as women and young people without qualifications.

Social Benefits and the Aging Population

Do immigrants unduly benefit from favorable social laws? Many ask why so much support is given. However, the data shows:

• As workers, they contribute significantly to Social Security.
• These contributions help to maintain the pension system.
• The State saves on costs because it has not had to spend on their education.
• Europe's population is aging, creating a structural need for migration.

The Pull Factor and the Informal Economy

The idea that the wealth of Spain leads to a "pull factor" in poor countries is a frequent talking point. Statistics indicate that two-thirds of immigrants from the Third World work in the informal economy. They hope to integrate into Spanish society to reach a better position, even though employment in the informal sector involves competition similar to what they fled.

National Identity and Latin American Migration

Is immigration a "threat" that will alter the identity of Spain? A "closed identity" does not exist anywhere; there are always internal deviations. There is no choice unless foreigners are adapted to Spain. To encourage successful migration, Spain can look toward Latin America as a key partner.

Multiculturalism in a Connected World

The world is increasingly interconnected and interdependent. We share ideas, cities, neighborhoods, and classrooms. This multiculturalism is a fact that presents challenges such as self-exclusion and intolerance.

The Causes of Social Friction

1. Mistrust between cultural groups and the fear of difference.
2. Ignorance, which leads to unwarranted stereotypes such as "the Arabs are lazy."
3. Lack of information about culture, often resulting in information pollution.
4. Low participation of minorities in public life.
5. The belief that one's own culture is superior and others contribute nothing positive.

It is necessary to stimulate respect for others. This does not mean isolating to preserve identity; rather, we must engage in dialogue to facilitate social cohesion and rootedness. This promotes a sense of belonging without ignoring the particularities of each individual.

Core Values of Civic Ethics

The minimum values and ideals of a civic ethics include:

• Freedom: Understood as both moral and political autonomy.
• Equality: The elimination of domination and the guarantee of minimum social and cultural materials (such as income) so each person can develop a decent life. This includes equal opportunities to occupy positions and jobs, reducing inequalities to ensure self-esteem for all.
• Solidarity: Supporting the weak so they can reach greater autonomy and fully exploiting new talents for the benefit of society.
• Tolerance and Respect: Showing respect for conceptions of happiness that one does not personally share.
• A Dialogical Approach: Using dialogue as the primary resource to solve problems.