Study Finds Majority of Spanish Youth View Migration as Growing Threat

Survey shows rising concern over crime, assimilation, and migrant numbers among Spaniards ages 15–24.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

A newly released study examining attitudes among young people in Spain found that a majority now view migration as a significant concern, with many associating it with increased crime and expressing support for stricter cultural integration.

The report, titled Jóvenes Españoles 2026, was published by the nonprofit Fundación SM and analyzes responses from Spaniards ages 15 to 24, comparing trends with earlier surveys conducted in 2020 and 2005. The findings indicate notable shifts in perceptions of migration alongside broader changes in social and political attitudes.

According to the study’s findings, 61.7% of respondents said they believe migration has contributed to increased delinquency, more than double the 27.6% who held that view in 2020. Additionally, 65.6% said they think there are now too many migrants in Spain, compared with 34.2% in the earlier survey.

A majority of respondents also supported tighter expectations for cultural adaptation. Seventy-two percent said migrants should adjust to Spanish customs and norms, up from 47% five years earlier. At the same time, 58.9% agreed with the statement that conditions for migrants are overly lenient, nearly doubling from 30.4% in 2020.

While concerns about migration increased, the study found a decline in the belief that migrants take jobs from Spanish citizens. That figure dropped from 78% in 2005 to 43% in 2025. Meanwhile, 51% of respondents said migration remains economically necessary, suggesting continued recognition of its role in the labor force.

The report also identified demographic and ideological differences in attitudes. More favorable views toward integration and diversity were more common among women, respondents with higher education levels, and those identifying as politically left-leaning. In contrast, the study recorded a shift in political identification, with a 12% decline in those identifying as left or center-left and a 14% increase among those aligning with center-right or right-wing positions.

Beyond migration, the survey highlighted broader dissatisfaction with political institutions. Sixty-eight percent of respondents reported little or no satisfaction with how democracy functions in Spain, and nearly half indicated that, in some cases, more forceful governance could be preferable for maintaining social stability.

Researchers noted that these shifts reflect a broader trend rather than a temporary change, pointing to evolving attitudes among younger generations on issues of migration, governance and national identity.