Elma Saiz, the Minister of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration, recently visited the United States for her first international trip in her role. During her visit, she met with Alejandro Mayorkas, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and made a commitment for Spain to welcome up to 500 immigrants who have applied for asylum with a job. This commitment is a result of a trilateral agreement with the United States and Canada that began at the Summit of the Americas in June 2022. The Minister highlighted that the United States values Spain’s migration management and has requested that other countries follow similar practices.
The trip also confirmed that a new Social Security agreement between Spain and the United States is ready for signing. Minister Saiz mentioned that measures are being taken to address the overcrowding issues in the asylum hall at Barajas airport and that cases involving minors immigrating from the Canary Islands are reported to the Prosecutor’s Office as soon as they are identified. The Minister emphasized that Spain is approaching migration policies with a focus on human rights and as an opportunity, rather than just a challenge.
During her visit, Minister Saiz noted that the United States is looking to Spain as a model for migration policies and highlighted the success of projects like safe mobility offices, which provide employment opportunities for immigrants, particularly in renewable energy sectors. The collaboration between Spain, the United States, and Canada aims to expand this initiative to include up to 500 individuals. The project focuses on not only addressing vulnerability but also providing opportunities for employment and inclusion.
The Minister mentioned that the program will initially welcome individuals from Nicaragua, with plans to collaborate with organizations like UNHCR for further refugees from different countries in Latin America. Spain has various agreements with countries like Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, and Ecuador in terms of circular migration and agricultural employment. The country aims to involve social dialogue between business organizations, trade unions, and government authorities to ensure inclusive migration policies.
Regarding the potential extension of the program, the Minister described the talks with the U.S. government as fruitful, emphasizing the importance of combating xenophobic and hateful rhetoric towards immigrants. The relationship with the Biden administration was highlighted as positive, with a desire to maintain close collaboration and partnership to address common challenges.
Spain is also in the process of updating its Social Security agreement with the United States, which dates back to 1986. The new agreement aims to improve the rights of workers from both countries in terms of pension calculations and benefits. The agreement is seen as a positive step towards enhancing the relationship between citizens of both nations and facilitating smoother transitions for individuals moving between Spain and the U.S.
In response to the migrant situation at Barajas airport, Minister Saiz mentioned that efforts are being made to address the challenges in managing migration flows swiftly and effectively. The government is working to provide solutions, including creating new spaces and collaborating with various organizations. Additionally, changes to the Foreigners’ Regulation are being considered to streamline procedures and improve services for migrants. Despite recent challenges, the Minister emphasized that Spain is prepared and equipped to handle migration issues effectively.
