AI Denounces Spain's Far-Right 'National Priority' Principle Violates Human Rights

Amnesty International has strongly condemned the "national priority" principle adopted by Spain's far-right party, Vox, and accepted by conservative Popular Party (PP) governments in several regions. The organization argues that this principle, which prioritizes Spaniards over immigrants in accessing social benefits and public services, violates at least three human rights and fuels racism and xenophobia.

The principle has been incorporated into government pacts in Extremadura, Aragón, Castilla y León, and Andalucía. Amnesty International stated that these agreements contain "direct and indirect discriminatory and regressive measures in rights" by demanding "the preferential allocation of public resources to those who maintain a real, lasting, and verifiable connection with the territory."

The human rights group concluded that the "national priority" policy could breach obligations related to non-discrimination, the progressive realization of economic, social, and cultural rights, and the avoidance of regressive measures that worsen living conditions. It also poses a risk to the principle of the best interests of the child, particularly for unaccompanied migrant children who are often targets of criminalizing rhetoric.

Amnesty International urged the regional governments to adhere to recommendations made by a UN special rapporteur in 2020 regarding strengthening social policies. Esteban Beltrán, director of Amnesty International Spain, criticized the "national priority" concept as a disguise for discrimination, creating significant barriers for certain groups. The PP secured parliamentary majorities in these regions but required negotiations with Vox to form governments, leading to the inclusion of the far-right party's policies.

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disguising the concept of 'national priority' with the requirement of conditions that in practice mean a greater barrier of access for certain groups is also discrimination.