Rational vs fear. How Spain deals with migration

While many Western countries respond to migration with restrictions and reduced aid, Spain’s approach to African migration stands out for pursuing a strategy of partnership and shared opportunity, according to the BBC.

By hosting events such as AfroMadrid2025, a conference supported by the African Union focused on restorative justice and development, Spain’s government aims to build stronger connections based on both moral responsibility and practical interests.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez argues that migration must be seen not only through the lens of control but also through that of rational economics. Spain funds training programs in countries like Senegal for returning migrants and has expanded «circular migration» schemes, allowing West Africans to work seasonally in agriculture before returning home. Similar agreements now exist with Mauritania and The Gambia.

Spain’s foreign policy views Europe and Africa as one geopolitical space with West Africa, the Sahel and Latin America as one of its top priorities. To promote the development of African countries, Spain actively invests in education, technology, youth employment and cultural exchange.

Madrid also supports democracy and regional stability, backing the African Union and ECOWAS amid challenges posed by military regimes across the Sahel region. Domestically, the Spanish government backs African diaspora organizations and promotes public awareness campaigns to help combat racism and xenophobia.