A contrasting economic panorama
Spain is positioned as the fourth economy within the European Union, with a remarkable growth of 2.5% in the last year. However, an alarming 34.5% of boys and girls in the country are trapped in poverty or social exclusion. This situation generates great concern, especially when it is considered that only 1.5% of GDP is allocated to child support policies, a percentage that is below the European average.
Criticism and self-criticism in the Social Forum
In the context of the 90th edition of the Pere Tarrés Social Forum, the Minister of Youth and Children, Sira Rego, expressed her dismay at these figures, calling them an ‘unacceptable contradiction’. In a speech that mixed criticism with sincere self-criticism, Rego stressed the need to increase investment in childhood, pointing out that ‘a democracy cannot be strong if it ignores these inequalities’.
Challenges on the horizon
Josep Oriol Pujol, director general of the Pere Tarrés Foundation, raised a worrying scenario: a third of children in the country live below the poverty line. Pujol made a call to address the problem of housing, to improve the financing of socio-educational centers and to implement measures to eradicate violence and encourage healthy leisure options for young people.
Legislative initiatives for the future
Minister Rego shared her hopes for two significant legislative initiatives: the future youth law and the draft Safe Digital Environments Bill. ‘It is essential to regulate the digital world’, he argued, adding that ‘we cannot leave this space without rules’.
Expansion of resources for youth
Rego also proposed raising the age limit to receive aid for young people up to 30 years of age, with the aim of facilitating the emancipation of young people. In addition, he announced a ‘solidarity reception proposal’ for young migrants who arrive without family support, adapting to the needs of each territory.
A commitment to new generations
The minister concluded by highlighting her intention to position childhood and youth policies as a state priority, with measures that really listen to young people. ‘The new generations are fundamental to building fairer coexistence frameworks’, he said, stressing the importance of their active participation in society.
Reflections on the Pere Tarrés Social Forum
The Pere Tarrés Social Forum, with more than fifteen years of history, has established itself as an essential space for the debate on social action, bringing together key figures from the social, political, educational, academic and economic sectors. This platform continues to be an engine of reflection on the major challenges facing society today.
