The Disenchantment of Neighbors in the Face of Broken Promises
In the marginalized neighborhoods of Catalonia, apathy towards politics reaches alarming levels. On the eve of the municipal elections, the residents of Sant Joan and Culubret in Figueres express their deep dissatisfaction with the unfulfilled promises and the lack of attention to their needs.
Joaquim Pubill, spokesperson for the new neighborhood association created to revitalize the neighborhood, points out that the lack of tangible results has eroded residents’ trust in the political system.
Socioeconomic Inequality: A Determinant Factor
The data reveal a direct correlation between electoral participation and socioeconomic level. Areas with higher rates of poverty, unemployment and low educational levels historically have lower turnout at the polls.
Statistics show that census sections with incomes of less than 20,000 euros per year have significantly lower electoral participation than those with higher incomes.
Similarly, areas with an unemployment rate above 20% tend to have below-average voter turnout.
The Gypsy Community: A Marginalized Population
In Figueres, the neighborhoods with the highest abstention are home to a large Roma community. Residents report feeling excluded and ask for greater inclusion in society.
Pubill, spokesperson for the neighborhood association, emphasizes the need to integrate the Roma community and provide opportunities for its development.
Lack of Employment: A Disincentive to Vote
The lack of job opportunities also contributes to low voter turnout. Residents who are unemployed or have limited job prospects may feel that their vote has no impact on their situation.
Pubill poses the question: ‘If you don’t have a job and don’t see any future, why would you want to vote?’
A Call to Action
Neighborhood associations and experts call on politicians and society in general to address the root causes of political disaffection.
They urge greater investment in education, job opportunities and social programs to improve living conditions in marginalized neighborhoods.
Only through inclusion, equality and attention to the needs of all citizens can trust in the political system be restored and representative electoral participation ensured.
