A decisive demographic change
In Catalonia and in Western society in general, we are experiencing a demographic change of great impact, comparable to climate change in its significance.
The low birth rate and high life expectancy have led to a situation where generational replacement does not occur. Without immigration, the Catalan population would decrease year after year, since only a small proportion has Catalan roots.
Currently, of the eight million inhabitants, only two million are from Catalan families, and if we consider all the grandparents, this figure is significantly reduced.
It is important to note that almost half of the babies born in Spain have a mother of foreign nationality, a fact that reflects the importance of immigration in the growth of the population.
Diversity as a challenge
This reality poses significant challenges that must be addressed responsibly. There is a risk that society will fragment into separate ethnic, cultural or religious groups, generating tensions and conflicts between them.
It is essential to work to build a cohesive society, where different cultures and customs are respected, but with strong common ties based on values such as democracy, equal opportunities and freedom, while maintaining a strong sense of belonging to Catalonia.
This belonging can coexist with other identities and must be based on the assessment of the Catalan language and traditions, which are dynamic and can evolve by incorporating new elements.
Everyone’s commitment
The ongoing demographic process is inevitable and requires a collective response. Both the institutions and each individual must work to achieve the established goals and reject solutions that promote discrimination and stigmatization of foreigners.
