Analysis of the National Strategy Against Depopulation in the Demographic Challenge (Spain)

Abstract

The Spanish government's strategy against depopulation has a range of errors in its approach. It is eminently quantitative, sectorial, top-down and functional, regardless of the will of the people as to where and how to live, which should be the key. Population increase underlies as a main hidden target, which is impossible to obtain. The measures are presented in a disorganized way, cut and paste from ministries without reasoning how they would integrate a coherent and interdepartmental strategy, with added value. Moreover, relevant issues such as housing, mobility, and immigration and new residents, are omitted. It also fails to take advantage of the know-how of other governments and development agencies, and dispenses with the latest research, which would inspire a different style and evidence-based content. All this will hinder its effectiveness. Thereby, even if a well-designed strategy does not confirm that it will achieve its goals, not fixing the starting errors makes it highly unlikely.