Migration to Spain continues at an alarming rate since the last decade of the 20 th century. The documents published by the Spanish Government record 3.7 million foreign residents in Spain in 2005. But at one point of time in the 60s and 70s there was a horrifying rate of migration from Spain to other European nations due to the high unemployment and political unrest in Spain.
The Plan Greco pioneered in 2001by the Immigration Department of Spain was designed for the convenience of foreign migration to Spain . As a member of the European Union, the Government of Spain had to adopt this measure to coordinate the pattern of immigration within the nations of Europe. The Plan Greco provided the security to foreign immigrants and their families. Such a measure would oblige the foreign immigrants to contribute for the growth of Spain. A peaceful existence of Spanish natives and the foreign immigrants to Spain is thus ensured. This legislation also looks after the refugees and displaced persons forcing to Spain.
Migration to Spain continues not only from European nations but also from America. The assessed reasons behind the steep rate of migration to Spain are as follows:
- Spain's cultural bondage with Latin America
- The geographical location of Spain with a beautiful coastline
- The porosity along the borders of Spain
- The powerful economic strengths in agricultural and construction sectors in Spain
- The low cost labor force in Spain attracts foreign businessmen
The secured laws for immigrants in Spain tie them for a very long period of time in Spain. Though migration to Spain is on the top, Madrid continues to be the major magnet for immigrants. A mixed culture has emerged in Spain because of the coexistence of original Spaniards and foreign immigrants.
