It was announced in 'El Periodico', a regional (Aragon) newspaper last Friday that 100,000 Spanish people have left the country in the last two years. There was a similar economic exodus in the 60s and 70s but this time those leaving are young and often highly qualified. Four decades ago those leaving Spain worked in factories, as domestics and in agriculture.They went to Switzerland, France, Germany, Belgium and Britain.
Now we see a second exodus. In 2011, more people left Spain than entered. Youth unemployment here is almost double the general unemployment rate. In Aragon, youth unemployment (under 25 year olds) now stands at 39.8%. Those who do have work, feel lucky if they can earn 1000 euros a month. There is a general feeling of a lack of hope for the future and every young person has to consider the possibility of going abroad to find work. Most mention Britain or Germany.The demand to learn languages has never been higher.
When a country has nothing to offer its educated youth, the situation really is a crisis. With conditions worsening by the day, people speak of little else.
Now we see a second exodus. In 2011, more people left Spain than entered. Youth unemployment here is almost double the general unemployment rate. In Aragon, youth unemployment (under 25 year olds) now stands at 39.8%. Those who do have work, feel lucky if they can earn 1000 euros a month. There is a general feeling of a lack of hope for the future and every young person has to consider the possibility of going abroad to find work. Most mention Britain or Germany.The demand to learn languages has never been higher.
When a country has nothing to offer its educated youth, the situation really is a crisis. With conditions worsening by the day, people speak of little else.