World Immigration News

‘When did empathy become exceptional?’: what’s behind Sánchez’s plan to ‘regularise’ 500,000 undocumented migrants in Spain

Release Date: 2026-02-04
Media: The Guardian
Summary: Across Europe, the rise of far-right parties has pushed even centrist leaders to adopt tougher rhetoric on immigration in an effort to appeal to voters concerned about border control.

Against this trend, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a plan to regularize about 500,000 undocumented migrants and asylum seekers, granting them one-year residence permits. Conservative and far-right parties have criticized the move, warning it could attract more migrants and strain public services.

Sánchez argues that immigration is essential not only on humanitarian grounds but also for Spain’s economy and welfare system, given its low birthrate. He cites data showing that migrants account for 25% of per-capita GDP and 10% of social security revenues while representing only 1% of public spending.

The policy may also help Sánchez politically by reinforcing support among left-leaning voters during a difficult period domestically. At the same time, it positions him as one of the few European leaders taking a more pro-migration stance as much of the continent shifts to the right. For many migrants, the plan represents hope, legal rights, and the ability to work and live without fear.
Tags: Spain

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