MARINALEDA: Moving and Living in Andalusia

In times of severe crisis, national policies, as well as local communities, seek in every way to find the strength to revitalize the entire population. If in Italy the actions of political leaders raise criticisms from the opposition regarding the consequences of economic maneuvers, in Spain, specifically in the autonomous community of Andalusia, there exists a small village where all citizens work earning a fixed salary that allows them to support their families, a small village where there is no unemployment and politicians receive no compensation for holding office... A society based on solidarity, generosity, and a collective spirit where each member commits to keeping the streets tidy and clean. Utopia? No, we are talking about Marinaleda: the dream of the earth.

In the small village inhabited by just under 2,700 souls, the entire economic and social system is based on equality among people and resource sharing. The underlying idea is not far from the intentions of Marxist socialism, but what is most surprising is that this system seems to have been implemented, for the first time in history, efficiently and functionally, with full respect for democracy and human rights (this is the main novelty...). All residents work for six hours a day, six days a week, earning a daily wage of $47.00. Most live from rural agriculture and raw material processing, working for the agricultural cooperative that exports products throughout Europe (including Italy). Others take on public duties at local administrative offices and schools, or manage small local shops. Marinaleda features a modern sports center, a recreational area for retirees, a large cultural center, a soccer field, and a swimming pool (which costs just $3 for the entire summer season), plus there are home services for the elderly and needy, and alternative media information is provided through local radio and TV. Health, civic, and school facilities are modern and well-maintained. Among all, the kindergarten stands out; open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, it costs $12.00 per month for each child (including breakfast and lunch daily). All of this is possible thanks to a prudent and intelligent use of social funds. For example, a few years ago the town council decided to abolish the police force, a solution that allows for a financial saving of about $260,000 a year. Monthly, there are the so-called "Red Sundays", days when the entire population dedicates itself to maintaining the streets and public greenery.

Through some state and regional subsidies, the Mayor has managed to propose a unique housing distribution formula: every citizen can purchase an apartment by paying an advance of $15.00 per month, as long as they contribute to its construction. After the building is completed, the citizen commits to repaying the cost of the materials used for construction, covering a monthly fee of about $15.00 or a little more. The law also requires that a document is signed indicating the "non-sellability" of the property in the future (thus avoiding any form of speculation). SEE ALSO: The 10 Happiest Countries in the World

It is natural that in dark economic periods like the current ones, many people seriously consider the possibility of moving to Marinaleda. Unfortunately, it is unclear what Mayor Gordillo's position is regarding new residents joining their "perfect system". The economy of Marinaleda is based on self-sustenance, and understandably, the mayor intends to preserve this system as much as possible. Certainly, the waiting list to live in the town is quite long, especially considering the poor economic conditions of the Spanish state. A good way to increase the chances that an application is accepted could be to present oneself with a substantial sum to invest non-repayably in the cooperative that constitutes the economic and working engine of the town. Requirements:

Unfortunately, it seems that it is not easy to get in touch with municipal officials. Thus far, very few have managed to obtain reassuring information about the possibilities of relocation via email or phone. On the contrary, several journalists who personally interviewed the Mayor testify to his extreme willingness to provide direct information about the reality created by the Izquierda Unida movement. Tips for moving to Marinaleda:

Here is a fascinating service that presents the economic miracle of Marinaleda:

It has been 30 years since Izquierda Unida, a left-wing communist party, won the municipal elections, taking charge of the town. The main figure of reference, as well as the founder of this political movement, is Juan Manuel Sanchez Gordillo: currently mayor of Marinaleda. An activist, unionist, and history teacher, he is the architect of this "utopian dream" that has become a reality. The remarkably low prices of houses, the minimal unemployment rate, as well as the good quality of life of citizens, have allowed Marinaleda to gain significant popularity, not only in Spain but worldwide, making it an excellent example of radical socialist politics: further proof of how essential it can be to not only involve the masses but to make them cooperate by creating a strong collective consciousness.