Why older Spanish women are embracing immigration
Behind the controversy, Spain's so-called Charos Mandingueras find understanding and companionship in migrants, not just sex. A growing phenomenon.
English · Original discussion in Spanish · Published
The reason the Charos Mandingueras are delighted with immigration
Heidy, a middle-aged woman, appears in a photo alongside a young migrant in what looks like an everyday stroll. The image, which has circulated on social media, illustrates a phenomenon some interpret as purely sensual. But those who defend it insist it is not about sens: "it's because they understand them and know how to listen to them".
What lies behind the Charos Mandingueras phenomenon?
The term, steeped in irony, is used in Spain to refer to older Spanish women who seek companionship from migrants. Against the narrative that migrants come to do the jobs Spaniards reject, some add an emotional component. They satisfy both the sensual and the maternal instinct, according to certain readings. "These are junk jobs", but demand will grow as more older women are left alone.
Opinions are divided: some see a mere disguised labour transaction; others, a genuine connection. What is certain is that the debate reflects tensions over the role of immigration in elderly care and loneliness in Spain.
The surprising fact is that, despite the criticism, many of these relationships are long-lasting and not limited to sensual exchange. "These are now little jobs not just anyone can do", they point out, hinting that there is an extra layer of understanding that goes unvalued.
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Heidy, a middle-aged woman, appears in a photo alongside a young migrant in what looks like an everyday stroll. The image, which has circulated on social media, illustrates a phenomenon some interpret as purely sensual. But those who defend it insist it is not about sens: "it's because they understand them and know how to listen to them".
What lies behind the Charos Mandingueras phenomenon?
The term, steeped in irony, is used in Spain to refer to older Spanish women who seek companionship from migrants. Against the narrative that migrants come to do the jobs Spaniards reject, some add an emotional component. They satisfy both the sensual and the maternal instinct, according to certain readings. "These are junk jobs", but demand will grow as more older women are left alone.
Opinions are divided: some see a mere disguised labour transaction; others, a genuine connection. What is certain is that the debate reflects tensions over the role of immigration in elderly care and loneliness in Spain.
The surprising fact is that, despite the criticism, many of these relationships are long-lasting and not limited to sensual exchange. "These are now little jobs not just anyone can do", they point out, hinting that there is an extra layer of understanding that goes unvalued.
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Summary of a discussion on Burbuja.info - Foro de economía, actualidad y política., translated from Spanish and reviewed before publication. Read the full discussion (11 replies).
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