Spain’s Integration and Impact within the European Union
European Regional Policy
European regions have varying population and production levels, leading to inequalities. To address this, the EU established a regional policy, utilizing Structural and Cohesion Funds from its annual budget. Initially, Spain and Portugal’s regions were less developed and received substantial funding. However, post-2004, with Eastern European countries joining, funds were redirected to their less developed regions.
Balance of Spain’s EU Accession
Spanish Integration into EU
Two decades after joining, Spain achieved full integration, leading to dramatic changes. Since 1987, Spain has received EU funds amounting to 0.8% of its GDP. In 1986, Spain’s per capita income was 68% below the EU average, but it reached 98% today, largely due to EU investments.
Effects of Social Integration: Increased wealth and prosperity have created stability, making Spain a desirable market. Spain holds a privileged position within the EU.
Use of European Funds
European investments, particularly through the ERDF, have funded numerous projects. Social and cultural advancements were supported by EU social funds and the ESF, improving employment prospects.
Community Initiatives
Established in 1988, these programs address specific EU challenges:
- INTERREG: Promotes cross-border, transnational, and interregional cooperation.
- LEADER: Encourages sustainable development in rural areas.
- EQUAL: Combats employment discrimination.
- URBAN: Regenerates declining urban neighborhoods.
Spain in the Context of EU Countries
Area and Population
Spain ranks second in size and fifth in population within the EU. The EU’s population density is 120 inhabitants per square kilometer, but distribution varies, necessitating diverse legislation to ensure equitable public services and infrastructure.
Economic Activity
Economic activities across the EU are diverse, with varying levels of technological development. EU policies aim to homogenize technological advancements, reducing disparities.
GDP
In 1997, Spain’s GDP was 93.3% of the EU average. By 2008, despite the crisis, it reached 100%.
Activity Rate and Unemployment
The EU’s average activity rate is 63%, while Spain’s is slightly below 60%, partly due to slow female workforce integration. The EU’s average unemployment rate is 9%, with some countries exceeding 10%.
Education
Education is crucial for individual and collective success. Scandinavian countries invest the most in education, while Greece and Luxembourg invest the least.
Human Development Index (HDI)
The HDI considers life expectancy, literacy, school enrollment, and GDP per capita. Spain belongs to a group with favorable living conditions.
EU Support
Public support for the EU varies. Prosperous countries and recent members show less support, while Spain shows strong support and minimal negative views on EU membership.