News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

government

New Regulation for Spanish Citizenship Abroad: A Comprehensive Update for Expats and Spanish Nationals

In a significant move to address the evolving needs of Spanish citizens living abroad, the Government of Spain has announced a new Regulation to update and develop the Statute of Spanish Citizenship Abroad. This initiative, spearheaded by the Minister for Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, Elma Saiz, aims to enhance the support and protection for Spanish nationals residing outside Spain.

Prior Consultation and Regulatory Process

On February 10, 2025, the government initiated a prior consultation process, marking the beginning of the regulatory journey for this new Regulation. This phase is crucial as it will gather opinions from citizens, organizations, and associations to ensure the new rules align with the current needs of the expatriate community. Minister Saiz emphasized the importance of this process, stating that it will help comply with Article 42 of the Spanish Constitution, which pertains to the rights of Spanish citizens abroad.

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employment

New Rights for Teachers in Spain: Recognizing Leave for Caring for Sick Children

In a significant development for educators in Spain, the education sector is set to recognize and protect the rights of teachers who need to take leave to care for their sick children. This move aims to balance the professional and personal responsibilities of teachers, ensuring they do not lose their labor rights when attending to family needs.

Background and Context

The decision comes on the heels of a broader discussion on family and labor rights in Spain. Recently, a Spanish court ruled that single mothers are entitled to the same parental leave as couples, effectively doubling their leave period to 32 weeks. This ruling underscored the importance of equal treatment for all families, regardless of their structure[2].

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sport

Protest Against LGBTIphobia in Sports Gathers in Front of Spanish Parliament

On February 21, 2025, a significant gathering took place in front of the Spanish Parliament in Madrid, as a group of approximately thirty individuals came together to voice their strong opposition to LGBTIphobia in sports. This protest was a response to the escalating global and national debates surrounding the participation of transgender athletes in sports.

The Context

The protest comes at a time when the issue of transgender athletes in sports has become a highly contentious topic worldwide. Recently, in the United States, executive orders signed by the Trump administration have banned transgender women and girls from competing in girls' and women's sports from elementary school through college. This move has sparked widespread criticism and protests, highlighting the broader struggle for transgender rights and inclusivity in sports.

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transportation

Protest in Cazón, Cantabria: Community Rallies Against Implementation of 'Ola Zona'

In the quaint town of Cazón, Cantabria, a significant number of residents took to the streets on February 22, 2025, to express their strong opposition to the implementation of the 'Ola Zona' traffic management system. This protest reflects the growing concerns and dissatisfaction among the local community regarding the potential impact of this new traffic regulation.

The 'Ola Zona' System: What's at Stake?

The 'Ola Zona' system, designed to manage and reduce traffic congestion, involves the creation of specific zones where traffic flow is regulated through a series of traffic lights and sensors. While the intention is to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, the residents of Cazón fear that this system will lead to increased travel times, higher costs, and significant disruptions to their daily lives.

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culture

Santander’s Carnival 2025: A Vibrant Celebration Awaits

Santander, the capital of the Cantabria region in Spain, is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events of the year: the Carnival of Santander 2025. This festive celebration, steeped in tradition and vibrant culture, promises to be an unforgettable experience for both locals and expats alike.

Grand Gala and Concurso de Comparsas

The highlight of the carnival will be the grand gala and the Concurso de Comparsas (Murga Contest), where various murga groups will compete to showcase their musical and theatrical talents. These murga groups, known for their colorful costumes, witty lyrics, and energetic performances, are a cornerstone of Spanish carnival traditions. The contest will take place in the heart of Santander, bringing the city to life with music, dance, and laughter.

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economy

Significant Wage Gaps Persist in Andalusia, Affecting Expats and Locals Alike

In the sun-kissed region of Andalusia, Spain, a stark contrast between luxury and livelihood has come to light, particularly in the affluent town of Marbella. Despite its reputation for opulence, with numerous luxury villas, sleek yachts, and high-end cars, Marbella is grappling with one of the lowest average salaries in the region.

Average Salaries in Marbella

In 2023, workers in Marbella earned an average gross annual salary of 18,197 euros, translating to a monthly salary of approximately 1,300 euros when divided into 14 payments. This figure places Marbella second to last among the 13 municipalities in Andalusia with over 100,000 inhabitants, just above Roquetas de Mar, which recorded an average annual salary of 16,797 euros[1].

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