Spanish Population Trends: Migration and Aging

Spanish Population Dynamics and Migration

Consequences of External Migration

Demographic consequences were manifested in the decrease in the size of the population and its distribution. The economic consequences were positive on one hand, relieving pressure from strong natural growth and unemployment, and negative on the other, because many savings are not invested in productive assets. Social consequences included uprooting and harsh living and working conditions.

Foreign Emigration Today

Spain has ceased to be a country of emigration for better jobs, better qualifications, and a better lifestyle.

Current Immigration and Its Consequences

Spain has become a receiver of immigrants, both legal and illegal. They come from Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia, and their destinations include cities, Andalusia, and the Canary Islands. The causes and profiles are diverse. EU migrants are retirees who appreciate the good weather of the coast or adults attracted by business opportunities. Others are immigrants from outside [the EU] for political or economic reasons. The Aliens Act regulates all aspects of immigration: entry into the country, rights and freedoms, working conditions, and procedures for expulsion.

The consequences are:

• Demographic: Young immigrants tend to have lower birth rates, and this slows down the steep decline in the birth rate.
• Economic: Some Spaniards regard immigrants as competitors in the labor market, often performing tasks that Spaniards are unwilling to do. The aging population will result in the future in a reduction in the workforce, with difficulties in paying pensions and maintaining the current level of welfare.
• Social: The social consequences of immigration include creating some social problems, such as the concept of invasion and fear of the reduction of national identity. Many immigrants suffer from harsh living and working conditions, which is why some may become involved in organized crime, drug trafficking, and so on.

Structure of the Spanish Population

Gender and Age Structure

Sex structure is the ratio between the number of men and women who make up the population (masculinity or femininity rates). Spain has an aging population. Young people have reduced their rate due to the decrease in birth rates. The percentage of adults has grown and varies little between autonomous communities. The elderly population has increased.

The causes of aging are declining birth rates and increased life expectancy. This affects the future of pensions, healthcare, and social integration. The financing of pensions depends on the working population. The elderly require many medical visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. On the social side, aging raises issues like care homes and residences.