Spanish Migration History and Economic Consequences Post-1973

The Evolution of Spanish External Migration

Decline of Permanent Migration Since 1973

From 1973, permanent migration from Spain to Europe declined significantly. This shift was primarily driven by the economic crisis, which led to rising unemployment in Western European countries. Consequently, many Spanish emigrants returned home. Today, Spanish external migration is predominantly seasonal and temporary.

Consequences of Spanish Migration

External migration has had major demographic, economic, and social consequences for Spain.

Demographic Consequences

• Manifested in the attrition (loss) of the Spanish population and affected its distribution across the territory.

Economic Consequences

The economic consequences were mixed:

• Positive effects: Initially, migration eased strong natural population growth and reduced domestic unemployment.
• Negative effects: Many migrants' savings were not invested in their areas of departure, as banks tended to invest these funds in more developed regions, hindering local development in emigration zones.

Social Consequences in Destination Countries

Spanish migrants faced significant social challenges in their destination countries, including:

• Being uprooted from their communities to join societies whose language and customs were unfamiliar.
• Appalling living conditions, often involving separation from family and poor quality housing.
• Employment status frequently marked by wages lower than those received by native workers.

Spanish Out-Migration Today: A Shift in Status

Today, Spain is no longer characterized as a country of emigration. This fundamental change is attributed to several key factors:

• Higher Training: The Spanish workforce possesses higher levels of training, aiming for better jobs domestically.
• Increased Living Standards: General increases in the standard of living.
• Domestic Opportunities: Improved youth employment and greater family stability.
• International Competition: Potential Spanish emigrants face intense competition in destination countries from immigrants originating from less developed nations, who often accept lower wages for roles such as paid work and domestic services.