(MENAFN) Spain is taking a markedly different approach from other Western nations in its policies on African migration and development engagement. While countries such as the US, UK, France, and Germany are scaling back development aid, Madrid is committed to gradually expanding its support, even from a comparatively modest baseline.

This week, Madrid hosted AfroMadrid2025, an African Union-backed “world conference on people of African descent,” which focused on restorative justice and the establishment of a new development fund. The event reflects the socialist-led government’s broader effort to deepen and diversify ties with Africa, Spain’s southern neighbor across the Straits of Gibraltar.

In July, Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares launched an advisory council comprising leading intellectuals, diplomats, and cultural figures—over half of whom are African—to oversee the implementation of Spain’s comprehensive Spain-Africa strategy unveiled late last year. Plans include new embassies south of the Sahara, as well as expanded partnerships in business and education.

Spain’s approach contrasts sharply with that of other Western nations, not only in terms of funding but also in tone and mindset, particularly regarding migration. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, like many European leaders, is seeking ways to manage irregular arrivals while facing electoral pressure from the radical right. The Vox party, firmly established in parliament and consistently polling third, has leveraged anti-migration sentiment to challenge the government.

Tensions came to a head in July when extra security forces were deployed in Torre Pacheco, Murcia, following the assault of a pensioner by three Moroccan men, highlighting friction in areas where African workers are vital to the horticultural sector. While the conservative People’s Party favors immigration from Latin America for cultural reasons, Vox has pushed for stricter measures targeting African workers in low-skilled agricultural roles.

For the Spanish government, migration is both a political and practical challenge. Balancing economic needs with social and political pressures remains central to Madrid’s distinctive policy, which seeks engagement and development alongside security and regulation.

MENAFN15102025000045017640ID1110199533