Many Cubans are keen on emigrating to Spain and are actively seeking information about enticing projects that could help them settle in rural areas of the Iberian nation. The phenomenon of depopulation in rural Spain is significant, with some regions having basic infrastructure but lacking a sufficient population to sustain it.
In 2016, the Arraigo Project was launched with the aim of repopulating and revitalizing the so-called "emptied Spain," referring to small rural communities that have seen their populations dwindle due to migration towards larger cities. This social initiative not only seeks to improve conditions in these areas but also offers job and housing opportunities for those looking to change their lives—something that aligns well with the goals of many Cuban families amid the current economic, political, and social crisis on the island.
Enrique Collada, the executive director of the Arraigo Project, highlighted in statements to HuffPost that the abandonment of these villages is an urgent issue that needs to be addressed. "Our objective is to reconnect urban families with rural opportunities, facilitating their adaptation and integration into new communities," he said.
The Complex Process of Settling in Rural Spain
The process of relocating to these areas is not straightforward. The project offers guidance to both families and entrepreneurs interested in moving, as well as to local municipalities to help them receive and support new residents. According to Collada, "it’s not just about offering a house in exchange for work, but ensuring that the people who move have a genuine commitment to the community and are not merely fleeing from problems."
Cubans in Spain: Reality and Testimonials
The experience of Cubans who have emigrated to Spain varies significantly. Robert Alba, a Cuban resident in Alicante, has shared on social media the challenges involved in emigrating. In a TikTok video, Alba debunks the perception that emigrating is the "easiest path." "Living in another country means constantly struggling, facing high emotional and economic costs," he asserts.
Anais Fleites, originally from Havana and now residing in Galicia, also reflects on the difficulties faced by emigrants. Despite her son having a stable job, she has not secured a permanent contract, and finding suitable rental accommodation has been a real challenge for her family. "I am signed up with all the real estate agencies and am desperately searching for a rental," she comments.
Some Cuban families have had better luck and found in the Arraigo Project an opportunity to make a positive change in their quality of life, with housing, schools, and jobs guaranteed upon their arrival in Spain. Osleidys, along with six family members, moved to Beteta, Cuenca, from Havana thanks to this program. "We learned about the project through a friend and decided to contact them. It was a long process, but we finally settled here," she recounts.
Integrating Cubans into Rural Communities
The Arraigo Project not only facilitates the move but also helps with integration into new communities. Participant testimonials are positive. "Since we arrived, we have received constant support from the Town Hall and the neighbors," says Osleidys. The family has adapted well, finding jobs and participating in community life.
However, Collada warns about the risks of certain policies. The idea of offering free housing in exchange for employment, while appealing, might attract people without a true interest in the community's well-being. "We seek committed individuals who want to integrate and contribute to rural life, not just those looking for a temporary solution to their problems," he explains.
Emigrating from Cuba to Spain and settling in a rural village is not an easy process. It involves facing cultural, economic, and emotional barriers. However, with initiatives like the Arraigo Project, families find support and an opportunity to build a new life in Spain. Collada reminds us that "helping to develop the rural world is helping society as a whole." Although the journey is not easy, for many, it represents an invaluable opportunity to start anew.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Arraigo Project and Cuban Emigration
For those considering the move from Cuba to Spain through the Arraigo Project, several common questions often arise. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help guide potential emigrants.
What is the Arraigo Project?
The Arraigo Project is an initiative launched in 2016 aimed at repopulating and revitalizing rural areas in Spain that have experienced significant depopulation.
How can Cuban families benefit from the Arraigo Project?
Cuban families can benefit from the Arraigo Project through opportunities for housing, employment, and integration into rural communities, providing a fresh start away from the economic and social challenges in Cuba.
Is it easy to move to a rural area in Spain through the Arraigo Project?
No, the process is complex and involves significant cultural, economic, and emotional adjustments. The Arraigo Project offers support, but a genuine commitment to the community is essential.