A new storm is brewing in Spanish politics: the attempt to transfer immigration powers to Catalonia has failed. This move, intended to appease Carles Puigdemont’s demands, has exposed the fragility of the coalition supporting Pedro Sánchez’s government. For months, this alliance has been hanging by a thread, and the initiative’s failure is a worrying sign for all involved.
Immigration has become one of the most contentious issues not only in Spain but across Europe. While other countries address the topic openly, in Spain, debate often takes a back seat due to the government’s cautious rhetoric. Nonetheless, rapid changes are underway: studies show that nearly half of the country’s under-fives have foreign roots. This points to profound shifts in both society and politics.
Pedro Sánchez has so far skillfully used the immigration issue to divide society into two camps: some advocate for humanitarianism and solidarity, while others push for tougher measures and control. As a result, the government accuses the opposition of radicalism, while the opposition, in turn, reproaches the authorities for populism and for ignoring real problems.
Particular criticism was directed at the way unaccompanied minor migrants were distributed among regions. This mechanism was seen as a tool to pressure autonomous communities governed by opposition parties. Consequently, tensions between the central government and the regions have only escalated, and public discontent has become more apparent.
Internal divisions within the ruling coalition over immigration may have serious consequences for Sánchez. His strategy of portraying the Partido Popular (PP) as a hostage of the far right could ultimately backfire. Europe has already seen examples where this tactic boosted the popularity of radical forces — just recall the successes of the Reform Party in the United Kingdom or the National Rally in France.
For now, PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo is holding his ground, but pressure from VOX and other right-wing groups is increasing. In Catalonia, traditionally a hotbed of political innovation, there is a growing support for both local nationalists and VOX. This could signal major changes ahead for the entire political landscape of Spain.
As society demands tougher immigration controls and the government sticks to its current course, the room for compromise is narrowing. If these trends continue, Spain may enter a new phase of political turbulence, where familiar alliances and roles come into question.
