Economy
The Spanish economy has been going through a period of great turbulence in recent years but is showing signs of recovery. After the financial crisis of 2008 and the subsequent recession, the country suffered a severe blow with high levels of unemployment and an increase in public debt. However, in recent years, Spain has made significant progress in economic recovery.
One of the key sectors of the Spanish economy has always been construction. However, during the crisis, this sector was hit hard, with the property bubble leading to a collapse in house prices and a decrease in investment in the sector. This has had a significant impact on the economy as a whole, with rising unemployment and falling GDP.
In recent years, Spain has worked to diversify its economy and reduce dependence on the construction sector. Efforts have been made to promote innovation and the development of high-tech sectors, such as renewable energy, information technology, and biotechnology. These emerging sectors are helping to revitalise the Spanish economy and create new job opportunities.
In addition, the export sector has become increasingly important for the Spanish economy. Spanish companies are exporting a wide range of products, including cars, food, chemicals, and machinery. This has helped to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on the internal market.
Despite these positive signs, unemployment remains a significant challenge for Spain. Although the unemployment rate has fallen from the highest levels reached during the crisis, it still remains high, particularly among young people.
A Picture of the Society
Spain is a country that is committed to guaranteeing fundamental rights and freedom of religion. The Spanish Constitution of 1978 enshrines the right to freedom of religion and prohibits any form of discrimination based on religion. The country hosts a variety of religions and beliefs, including Catholicism, Islam, Protestantism, Judaism, and other minority religions. Religious communities enjoy freedom of expression and organisation, and the Spanish government promotes interreligious dialogue and mutual respect.
LGBTQIA+ Rights
Regarding the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, Spain has been a pioneer in the recognition of LGBTQIA+ rights. In 2005, it became the third country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Since then, significant progress has been made in the fight against discrimination and the recognition of LGBTQIA+ rights. Spanish law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and guarantees equal treatment in various areas, such as employment, education, and access to health services. In addition, Spain has adopted laws to protect LGBTQIA+children and promote inclusive education in schools. Spain has turned into a safe haven for many Europeans belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community in search of legal protection.
Country’s Security
As for security, Spain is a very safe country and is committed to ensuring the security of its citizens. Spain has also taken measures to combat terrorism and organised crime. On 17 August 2017, there was a terrible event known as one of the most serious massacres in Spain: the terrorist attack on the Rambla in Barcelona. On that occasion, a pickup truck hurled at high speed, zigzagging along the main street of Barcelona with the aim of investing as many pedestrians and cyclists as possible, causing the death of 16 people and the injury of another 130.
As in many countries, security remains a concern, and Spain is continuing to work to improve the prevention and management of both internal and external security threats.
