In Spain, the political battle for the youth vote is reaching a new level. The Sumar movement, led by Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Díaz, has announced a major overhaul of its strategy. The main goal is to regain the trust of young people, who are increasingly leaning toward right-wing parties, especially Vox.
Recent polls point to a concerning trend for the left: among Spaniards aged 18 to 24, Vox has emerged as the most popular party. Meanwhile, Sumar has yet to win significant support within this age group. The movement’s leadership plans to change that in the coming months, preparing a new platform and updating internal policies ahead of the upcoming political conference in November.
In focus: housing, climate, and technology
Sumar will prioritize the issues that matter most to young people: affordable housing, fighting climate change, as well as labor and tech reforms. The party believes that only a comprehensive approach and real change can restore young people’s faith in the future. Special emphasis is placed not only on institutional efforts, but also on active engagement with civil society—from direct dialogue to forging new alliances with youth movements.
Sumar is planning not just an election campaign, but a long-term strategy looking a decade ahead. The movement believes that to engage young people, you need to speak their language and address their real needs and expectations. In the near future, the party intends to put forward concrete initiatives to help young people feel heard and involved in decision-making.
New challenges and long-term goals
Sumar also highlights two key areas of work: leveraging the opportunities that come with being part of government and parliament, and building partnerships with activists and civil society organizations. Party leaders believe this approach will not only speed up the passage of important laws but also create a sustainable platform for advancing progressive ideas.
Among the priorities are protecting democratic rights, tackling inequality, and promoting policies aimed at resource redistribution. Sumar stresses that only by joining forces can society’s climate be changed and young people’s sense of opportunity restored.
Spanish youth at a crossroads
In recent months, young Spaniards have been actively participating in protests in support of Palestine and against rising housing costs. These demonstrations show that the new generation is demanding change and justice. Sumar hopes to be the force that offers real solutions and opens up new horizons for the country’s future.
