Regional Disparities in Spanish Social Services: An Empirical Assessment Through the European Pillar of Social Rights

Abstract

Our study aims to develop the set of key indicators proposed by the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR) Action Plan for Spain's 17 autonomous regions, presenting results for the year 2023. Additionally, the article examines whether significant regional differences exist among the Action Plan's main indicators, controlling the level of development of the public social services system in each autonomous community. An indicator framework was constructed for each of the 17 Spanish autonomous communities (units of analysis), including (a) the intensity of protection provided by public social services, measured through the Social Services Development Index, and (b) the three main dimensions of the EPSR, assessed through 17 variables. Data sources for these indicators were drawn from official Spanish institutions as well as social organizations. The statistical analysis model employed a combination of parametric and non‐parametric procedures to ensure methodological robustness and data triangulation. Results indicate that lifelong learning and employment rates in Spanish regions remain below the European targets set for 2030. Conversely, digital skills among the adult population and the percentage of young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET) have either surpassed or are close to European standards. The study concludes that regions with a "strong" public social services system exhibit significantly lower risks of poverty and social exclusion among the general population, as well as expanded opportunities for young people.