News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain

international-affairs

Pro-Chinese Operation Exploits Public Unrest Over Spain's 'Gota Fría' to Destabilize Authorities

In a startling revelation, an analysis by the American social network analysis agency Graphika has uncovered a sophisticated online operation aimed at exploiting public discontent in Spain, particularly in the Valencia region, to destabilize local and national authorities. This campaign is linked to a pro-Chinese group known as Spamouage, which has been active since 2017 and has previously influenced events in the U.S., Canada, and other countries.

The 'Gota Fría' Crisis

The 'Gota Fría' (Cold Drop) is a severe weather phenomenon that caused significant damage and loss of life in the Valencia region. The crisis began around December 9, 2023, and continued into January 2024. During this period, fake social media accounts on platforms such as BlueSky, Facebook, Gettr, TikTok, X, and YouTube disseminated critical content against the Spanish and Valencian governments. These accounts masqueraded as part of a campaign by the human rights organization Safeguard Defenders, which had previously exposed a network of clandestine Chinese police stations worldwide, including several in Spain.

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sport

Sporting Gijón Shows Generosity to Racing Santander Fans

In a heartwarming gesture of sportsmanship and camaraderie, Real Sporting de Gijón has sent 550 tickets for their upcoming match against Real Racing Club de Santander to be distributed among the loyal fans of the visiting team. This act of kindness is set to enhance the already rich rivalry and respect between these two historic Spanish football clubs.

The Match Details

The match is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the iconic Estadio Municipal El Molinón - Enrique Castro 'Quini' in Gijón. The stadium, named after the legendary Spanish footballer Enrique Castro 'Quini,' is known for its electric atmosphere and passionate fans. The kick-off time is set for 18:30 hours, promising an exciting evening of football.

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politics

Tensions Rise in Santander Over Citizen Participation

In the coastal city of Santander, Spain, a contentious debate has emerged regarding the level of citizen participation in local governance. The Regionalist Party of Cantabria (PRC) has been at the forefront of this discussion, questioning the city council's apparent reluctance to engage with the public.

The PRC's Concerns

On February 26, 2023, the PRC posed a direct question to the Ayuntamiento (city council) of Santander: "What is the city council so afraid of when it comes to citizen participation?" This inquiry reflects the party's growing frustration with what they perceive as a lack of transparency and inclusivity in local decision-making processes.

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international-affairs

Western Balkans Face Demographic Crisis: Emigration, Ageing, and the New Era of Immigration

The Western Balkans, a region that includes countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, and others, is grappling with a severe demographic crisis that threatens the very fabric of its societies. This crisis is characterized by rapid population ageing, high levels of emigration, and chronic labour shortages, but there are signs that the region is on the cusp of a significant demographic shift.

Population Decline and Ageing

The population of almost every country in the Western Balkans is shrinking at an alarming rate. Croatia, for example, has seen its population drop by 9.64% in just a decade, from 4.28 million in 2011 to 3.87 million in 2021. This decline is largely attributed to emigration and low birth rates. The country is also experiencing a rapid ageing of its population; in 1991, only 12% of the population was aged 65 or over, but by 2021, this figure had risen to 22.45%[1].

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culture

ARCOmadrid 2025: A Global Celebration of Contemporary Art

From March 5 to 9, 2025, Madrid will transform into the international capital of contemporary art as the 44th edition of ARCOmadrid takes place. This prestigious event, organized by IFEMA MADRID, promises to be a landmark in the global art calendar.

Dates and Venue

ARCOmadrid 2025 will be held in Halls 7 and 9 of the IFEMA MADRID exhibition centre. The fair is reserved for trade visitors on the first three days, with the public welcome starting on Friday, March 7 at 15:00. The public can enjoy the exhibition until Sunday, March 9, with varying opening hours and ticket prices ranging from 20 to 40 euros[1].

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emergency-response

Bomb Threats Disrupt Schools in Valencia, Spain

On Thursday, February 27, 2025, several schools in the Valencia region of Spain were placed on high alert following a series of bomb threats sent via email. The emails, which claimed that bombs would be detonated in schools, led to the arrest of a 24-year-old man by the Guardia Civil.

The Threats

The threatening emails were sent to schools in the towns of Chiva, Buñol, Yátova, and Siete Aguas. The sender, who identified himself with the initials H.F.P., claimed he was planning to kill "as many people as possible" and stated that he had "several firearms" at his disposal. He also apologized to his parents for the actions he was planning to carry out.

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