Torrevieja Socialists Call for Resignation Over Immigration Comments

The Socialist Municipal Group in Torrevieja has called for the immediate resignation of the Councillor for International Residents, Gitte Lund Thomsen, following the publication of controversial statements regarding Spain’s immigration regularisation process.

In a press release, the group states that the councillor shared misleading information about the extraordinary regularisation of people in an irregular administrative situation, contributing to confusion and public concern.

They also referenced previous comments attributed to the councillor which they describe as inappropriate, including remarks relating to the Chinese community, further intensifying criticism.

According to the statement, the situation is particularly serious given the councillor’s role, which is specifically focused on supporting and integrating international residents within the municipality. The group argues that using such a position to circulate what they consider inaccurate or divisive messaging undermines that responsibility.

The press release also highlights what it describes as an “inappropriate comparison” made by the councillor between the regularisation process and major events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, describing these remarks as irresponsible and offensive.

Clarifying the regularisation process

The Socialist group stresses that the current process is neither automatic nor universal. Instead, it is a structured administrative procedure aimed at individuals already living in Spain before 2026 who can demonstrate continuous residence, have no criminal record, and do not pose a risk to public order.

They further emphasise that the process does not grant nationality, voting rights, or eligibility for public office, countering claims that have circulated online.

According to the statement, similar processes have been implemented by governments of different political backgrounds and are designed to address the reality of people already living and working in Spain without formal status. By bringing individuals into the official system, authorities can increase tax contributions, reduce undeclared economic activity, and improve social integration.

Impact on Torrevieja

Torrevieja is one of the municipalities in Spain with a high proportion of international residents, and the Socialist group notes that the effects of the regularisation process are likely to be particularly visible locally.

Sectors such as hospitality, construction, and care work are expected to see the most direct impact, where informal employment has historically been more common.

The group argues that properly managed regularisation can help reduce social exclusion while strengthening public finances and community cohesion.

Call for responsibility

In conclusion, the Socialist Municipal Group maintains that the councillor’s statements have contributed to unnecessary social alarm and risk damaging coexistence in a city known for its diversity.

They have reiterated their call for resignation, stating that Torrevieja “deserves public representatives who reflect the values of respect, integration and responsibility”.

The statement ends with a broader appeal for institutional responsibility and for maintaining a city where people of all backgrounds can live together on equal terms.