In a striking departure from the prevailing political climate in Western nations, Spain is charting a unique course in its approach to migration and its engagement with the African continent. While countries like the US, the UK, France, and Germany are scaling back development aid, Spain is doubling down on its commitment to fostering deeper ties with Africa. This week, Madrid hosted the African Union-backed ‘World Conference on People of African Descent,’ focusing on restorative justice and the establishment of a new development fund. This event underscores Spain’s socialist-led government’s efforts to diversify and strengthen its relationship with its southern neighbor, just a few kilometers across the Straits of Gibraltar. In July, Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares launched a new advisory council, predominantly composed of African intellectuals, diplomats, and cultural figures, to oversee the implementation of the Spain-Africa strategy unveiled last year. Plans include opening new embassies south of the Sahara and forging partnerships in business and education. Spain’s approach contrasts sharply with the tone and mindset of other Western nations, particularly in its handling of migration. While Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez faces electoral challenges from the radical right, driven by anti-immigration sentiment, his government is pursuing innovative solutions to manage migration. These include training schemes for unemployed youth in countries like Senegal and a ‘circular migration’ program offering short-term visas for seasonal agricultural work. Spain’s strategy is rooted in the belief that Europe and Africa share a common geopolitical space, and it emphasizes economic sectors like infrastructure, digitalization, and energy transition, as well as education and youth employment. The cultural dimension includes promoting the Spanish language and supporting academic mobility. Spain’s commitment to democratic ideals, the African Union, and regional organizations like Ecowas further distinguishes its approach. In a world increasingly marked by xenophobia and hostility toward migrants, Spain’s progressive stance offers a refreshing alternative.