The ILP for the extraordinary regularization of migrants exceeds 400,000 signatures –

A cross-cutting campaign is managing to reach very different sectors of society

Until the end of December, the People’s Legislative Initiative promoted by the Essentials campaign must gather 500,000 supporters and overcome major logistical challenges before being presented to the Congress of Deputies

The recent reform of the Immigration Regulation omits the regularization of migrants who already live and work in Spain and forgets the 125,000 boys and girls who grow up in the country in a situation of irregularity

Thursday 29 September 2022. A transversal and diversified campaign is managing to mobilize very different sectors of society to demand the extraordinary regularization of migrants who already live and work in Spain. The Essentials campaign surpassed 400,000 signatures this week in support of a popular legislative initiative that requires half a million supporters.

From anti-racism to environmentalism through Christianity

Last weekend Christian organizations mobilized to collect signatures at the doors of many churches in the country on the occasion of the World Day of Migrants promoted by Pope Francis. At the same time, support was garnered in environmental mobilizations with the support of climate youth groups. At the same time, in popular festivals, such as La Mercè in Barcelona, ​​designer stalls were set up. What happened in those days is an example of the great diversity that this People’s Legislative Initiative (ILP) has achieved, bringing together more than 800 organizations supported by migrant groups and individuals.

The reform of immigration regulations is not enough

In Spain, according to the latest estimates, between 475,000 and 514,000 people reside illegally. Among them are 125,000 boys and girls in an irregular situation, with the problems that this entails in guaranteeing the fundamental rights of children.

The recent reform of the Immigration Regulation promoted by Minister José Luis Escrivá represents positive steps, such as the extension of family reunification, but forgets basic aspects, such as the regularization of people who already live and work in Spain, including minors .

It is essential to promote an extraordinary regularization as much as possible, such as that already promoted by the various governments of the Popular Party and the PSOE since 1996. For this reason, efforts continue to implement the ILP.

Big logistical challenges

It is a campaign with great logistical challenges. As required by law, 500,000 signatures are required, which must be physically collected on sealed sheets by the Electoral Commission or with a digital certificate. Sending these specifications by post to anyone who requests them involves a considerable effort.

It will be even more challenging to collect all those forms filled out by the more than 12,000 people who have requested them. On December 23, the deadline for reaching the half million necessary support expires and then the presentation to the Congress of Deputies is left.

Consult the text of the Popular Legislative Initiative