The state of welfare for asylum seekers and refugees in Spain

Abstract

This article explores the development and current legal, political and social context of welfare provisions for asylum seekers and refugees in Spain. The text explains the historical background of immigration and welfare in which policies have developed, and presents an analysis of the current legal and political framework of the Spanish system for welfare benefits for refugees and immigrants. Following this, the meaning of asylum admission and differences in refugee welfare rights are highlighted. The role of extra-institutional actors, particularly NGOs, is examined and examples of their welfare programmes are given. The last part of the article explores current public debates including the criminalization of refugees through their problematic access to welfare, and issues related to racism and violence. The article concludes with views on future transformations and the improvement of existing strategies.