The big problem of our time is the cost of living. The welfare state we have enjoyed since the 1990s has become a political manifesto backed by unprecedented revenues. During the seven years of socialist government, … It is the only way to reduce the enormous costs borne by the middle class. It is paradoxical that, beyond superficial measures, the so-called Workers’ Party has economically destroyed the people it is proud to represent with its polarizing populist and ideological profile.
The problem is blamed on young people, arguably the most prepared generation in history, who blame poor salaries and inaccessible housing for necessarily slowing down their personal development. The one who bites the tail is the white-tailed squirrel. Today, top-notch training and language knowledge are required to earn a salary not far below the minimum wage, which the government will eventually push below. Meanwhile, rents are through the roof and shopping carts are suffering from cumulative inflation since 2021, which cannot be compensated for by lower VAT. So, as the ABC announced today, without family help, it will take at least 10 years for young couples to be able to save 20% of their down payment on an apartment. And this maximally prolongs and limits the birth rate.
This 21st century drama also applies to families with children who are no longer considered young people and are excluded from protection of any kind. Those of us over the age of 35 are not in a better position. Beyond logical economic and professional advancement, the rise is not linear in all cases. And when I read the grand pronouncements of politicians, I feel like we have missed the mark by which we can be included in the “group” of people who are supposed to be protected. It seems as if housing issues and living expenses are irrelevant once you become an adult. You no longer have the option of participating in that 20% guarantee when signing a mortgage or accessing the VPO draw.
This issue is particularly sensitive for those who are near retirement age and have had to postpone retirement in order to continue contributing. Many are self-employed, struggling with unsustainable fees and living a rollercoaster life without a home. And they now do not consider the possibility of optimizing their income and even reduce their quality of life in order to pay rent. Rent is the same for everyone. In Seville the average is 900 euros.
The outlook is bleak. While the macroeconomic numbers may look positive, the reality is different. The middle class sees no return and suffers from increasing fiscal pressures. We’re paying more for the same thing, and the advances sold to us by those who define themselves that way don’t protect those who actually build it.
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