Summary
In early 2026, Minneapolis faced significant unrest over immigration issues, including clashes and deaths at anti-ICE actions. This tension extended beyond American borders, with progressive discourse in Western Europe reflecting the severity of such events. In the United States, Catholic bishops have repeatedly spoken out on immigration challenges. The situation escalated further when socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez of Spain announced plans to regularize the status of 500,000 illegal migrants. While this move gained applause worldwide for addressing a humanitarian crisis, it sparked significant backlash in Spain. Estimates put the number closer to one million people affected. Despite initial support from allies like Irene Montero, who claimed the initiative would “sweep right-wingers and racists away,” the proposal faced widespread rejection among Spanish citizens, especially younger demographics. The 67% of Spaniards who opposed regularization included a high percentage (89.3%) of those aged between 17-35, with many believing it would worsen the labor market and lead to more illegal immigration. Additionally, 41% felt the initiative aimed at displacing citizens with foreigners. Sánchez’s previous moves had already regularized 1.4 million individuals, while 1 million more became eligible voters in upcoming elections. In South Africa, King Misuzulu Sinqobile kaZwelithini of the Zulus called for foreign migrants to leave the country, causing significant public unrest. This conflict was further complicated by statements from President Cyril Ramaphosa, who emphasized immigration as a security and economic risk to the nation. Similarly, in Kuwait, where citizens are a minority within their own state, the government took unprecedented steps toward granting citizenship to foreigners.
Key Topics
Pedro Sánchez, Spain, Globalization
