The issue of mass legalization of migrants has once again become a focal point in Spanish society. The authorities’ decision to grant legal status to hundreds of thousands of foreigners has sparked a strong reaction among professional police associations. For many residents, this is more than just another piece of news — it could mean changes in daily life, public safety, and the operation of government services.
The National Police unions, which rarely act as a united front, have come together this time to criticize the initiative. Representatives from four major organizations — SUP, UFP, JUPOL, and CEP — have voiced serious concerns. In their view, without increasing staff and providing additional resources, the workload on departments handling immigration and borders could reach a critical level. These services are already operating at full capacity, and the upcoming surge in applications could bring about administrative collapse.
Security risks
A particular cause for concern is the issue of monitoring and verifying information from new applicants. The unions emphasize that a lack of prior convictions does not always mean someone has no issues with the law. In Spain, there have been cases where individuals were not convicted but were mentioned in investigations or had links to unlawful activities. According to experts, mass legalization without an individual review could pose a threat to public safety.
In addition, police representatives note that neither the Ministry of Internal Affairs nor the migration authority has provided clear instructions on organizing the process. It remains unclear who will verify identities and how, how potential risks will be identified, and who will be responsible for oversight. With the number of applications potentially exceeding one million and police resources limited, these issues become especially urgent.
Impact on society
Unions warn that such decisions could trigger the so-called ‘pull effect.’ Spain has already experienced legalization waves in the past, and each time this led to an increase in the number of new migrants hoping to take advantage of the opportunity. According to JUPOL representatives, such measures could benefit criminal groups involved in human smuggling. On social media, concerns are voiced that thousands of people will risk their lives to enter the country, counting on legalization.
Within the police structures themselves, anxiety is growing over the lack of a clear migration policy. Employees point out that most departments handling foreign nationals are already overwhelmed with asylum applications. A new wave of applications could bring their operations to a standstill. Unions are demanding not just an increase in staff, but also clear and transparent protocols to avoid chaos and protect citizens’ interests.
The Experts’ Perspective
Some organizations prefer to refrain from publicly criticizing political decisions, yet even they admit that the burden on the police will increase. In particular, UFP representatives point out that units handling foreign nationals and documentation are already working under constant pressure. A greater influx of requests could lead to growing tensions at the borders and more attempts at illegal crossings.
Unions insist on the need to strengthen the legislative framework. In their view, the laws regulating migration must be stable and insulated from political shifts. Only in this way can the police be effective and society’s interests be protected.
Consequences for the Country
The issue of mass legalization of migrants is not new for Spain. Over the years, both left and right governments have adopted similar measures. However, the current situation stands out for its scale and the level of tension. Unions emphasize that the authorities’ decision could disrupt the consensus built over recent decades and complicate relations with European partners.
With society and professional groups divided in their opinions, the further development of the situation remains unpredictable. For many Spaniards, the legalization of migrants is not only a topic for political debate but also a real challenge to the security system and social stability.
