Checkpoint: Converging And Diverging Social Justice Ideals In Spain And The United States
Markus Frieauff
Background
In the modern world of political discourse, Spain and the United States are prime examples of two nations driven by respective collective pursuits of societal fairness and equity. Despite their unique features and characters influencing their political landscapes, they maintain a fascinating alignment of ideals and focus on the potential for understanding and advancement. The subtle interplay between social justice and politics in the two countries and the intricate dynamics that shape their political cultures are examples of Europe's and the United States' shared commitment to social fairness. Spain has a reputation for a solid commitment to social welfare, differing from the United States, where diverse ideologies converge and contrast within a democratic framework. However, a common dedication to fundamental values lies alongside these surface-level (and more profound) distinctions, contributing to the evolution of a more just and equitable global ethos.
"The EU and the United States share a global responsibility to promote common values, including democracy, peace, freedom, and the rule of law; support and protect human rights around the world; create conditions for harmonious economic development worldwide; strengthen the rules-based international system, and improve the economies of developing countries and those in transition."
–– Delegation of the European Union to the United States of America
A Shared Pursuit Of Equality
At their cores, Spain and the United States both subscribe to the basic principle of equality, seeking to create a global society where all individuals can access opportunities and resources. Despite several disparities, this shared oath manifests in pursuing equitable healthcare, education, economic prospects, and social welfare strategies. Both countries recognize, in theory or practice, that the government should have a crucial role in making these rights and options available to all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic background or circumstances. In Spain, the Universal Healthcare System (Sistema Nacional de Salud or SNS) provides comprehensive medical care to all citizens, irrespective of their employment status or ability to pay. The SNS is funded through general taxation and social security contributions, ensuring everyone can have essential medical services, including preventative care, treatment, and hospitalization. Similarly, the Spanish education system is highly centralized within each of the seventeen Autonomous Communities and publicly funded, supplying free compulsory education from primary school to secondary school (ages six to eighteen) for all children. This system is designed to equalize educational opportunities and guarantee that all students have the foundation they need to succeed in later life. Additionally, Spain has a robust social welfare system that supplies financial assistance to those in need, including unemployment benefits, disability benefits, and pensions. The government aims to protect vulnerable citizens from poverty and hardship, providing everyone with critical security and well-being.
"The public authorities shall maintain a public social security system for all citizens, guaranteeing sufficient support and social benefits in situations of need, especially in the event of unemployment, and that the support and additional benefits shall be free."
– Article 41 Spanish Constitution of 1978
The United States also upholds the moral doctrine of equality through its healthcare, education, and social welfare programs. The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, has expanded health insurance coverage to millions of Americans, reducing the number of uninsured individuals to historically low levels. This development has ensured that more Americans have access to vital medical care despite their employment status or ability to pay. The United States also has a decentralized education system, with individual states and localities responsible for setting educational standards and overseeing schools–––however, public education is generally obtainable for all children. Also, the US supplies a range of social welfare programs such as Social Security, unemployment benefits, and food stamps to support those in need. Spain and the United States recognize that achieving true parity requires a multifaceted approach encompassing healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and social programs. While both nations have made significant progress, there remains room for improvement for the US in its ongoing efforts to provide all Americans with the ability to reach their full potential and contribute to society.
The Nuances Of Government Intervention
The countries' approaches to government intervention reveal notable distinctions in their shared aspiration for a just society. Spain has embraced a social democratic model under the governance of the Spanish Socialist Workers Party (Partido Socialista Obrero Español) and current president Pedro Sánchez, a member of the party. As a result, Spaniards emphasize the balancing act between individual liberty and collective responsibility and a healthier work-life balance. This method has translated into policies such as universal healthcare, affordable higher education, and an expansive social safety net, contributing to relatively high levels of social mobility and reduced income inequality compared to the US. In 2024, Spain ranked 1st in the world for overall health and 28th for healthcare, with the United States trailing at 34th and 45th, respectively. We can attribute these rankings to accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness. Additionally, Spain consistently ranks high in educational attainment and social protection coverage, reflecting a focus on equity and quality.
In contrast, the United States has historically grappled with the tension between individual freedom and government intervention. While there is a strong tradition of self-reliance and market-based solutions, growing recognition of the need for government action to address societal inequities and provide essential services has shifted political discourse. Despite these advancements, the United States still faces challenges in achieving a just society. Income inequality remains a significant issue, and there is a growing gap between the wealthy and the poor. Furthermore, healthcare and education still need to catch up to Spain's, and remedying this problem will require continued efforts to balance individual liberty and collective responsibility.
Summary: Charting A Course For The Future
As the international community faces the related challenges of inequality, poverty, and discrimination, Spain and the United States stand at a junction, poised to refine their bearings to social justice and the role of government. Spain's emphasis on social democratic principles offers valuable lessons in the effectiveness of government action in promoting general well-being. Meanwhile, the United States tradition of individual liberty and market-based solutions provides insights into balancing personal responsibility with collective needs. By harnessing their strengths and learning from Spain's experiences and the US's weaknesses, Americans can navigate the complexities of social righteousness and accomplish its self-proclaimed goal of liberty and justice for all. Notably, the future of this battle in these countries is not a predetermined outcome but rather a dynamic process shaped by ongoing political debates, societal shifts, and international trends. While the US confronts challenges in facing persistent injustices, it has witnessed mounting support for welfare programs and increasing recognition of the need for the government to have a position in influencing change. As these tendencies continue to evolve, the political future of the United States will depend on its ability to balance its cherished historical values with modern, necessary privileges for its people.
