The evolution of public opinion on immigration in Andalusia: signs of stability and change in times of economic crisis

Abstract

Given the sizable inflow of labour migration into Spain throughout the past decade, it is reasonable to ask whether, and how, the present economic downturn may affect Spaniards’ attitudes toward immigration. To answer this question, it is convenient to interpret quantitative data, such as survey results, together with qualitative research, such as the analysis of focus groups. With regard to the first two editions of the OPIA study («opinions and attitudes of the Andalusian population regarding immigration»), the article traces the evolution of public opinion from 2005 to the beginning of 2008 and assesses the specific contribution of both research tools in a context of rapid social change