Spain reports highest child poverty rate in the European Union

A study by FEDEA titled “Hijos, Ciclo Vital y Pobreza en España: 2008-2025” reveals that Spain has the highest rate of child poverty in the European Union. The data shows an AROPE (At risk of poverty or social exclusion) rate for children near 30%, significantly exceeding the EU average of 19.3%.

The report indicates that child poverty in Spain is a structural issue rather than a cyclical one, meaning it does not automatically improve with economic growth. Since 2008, the poverty rate for minors has consistently remained between 8 and 10 percentage points above the general population average. Having children is identified as a factor that increases the risk of impoverishment, particularly for young and single-parent households.

Critics and labor unions suggest the current social protection system is insufficient, relying too heavily on regressive tax deductions rather than direct, redistributive cash benefits. This lack of support affects young workers who face precarious wages and job instability when starting families.