For the citizens of Murcia region, the main problem they face, regardless of political affiliation and age, is economic (in its various aspects: employment, inflation, rising interest rates…). This is 54.9% of the 800 people surveyed between May 3 and 12 by the Spanish Observatory for Demographic Studies of the UCAM (OBEDE), within the UCAM’s ‘Barometer of the Region of Murcia – May 2023′.
A step down, but in a major way, they mention two issues: lack of water (28.2%) and sanitation (24.2%).
Below 20% are: security (14.2%), Mar Menor (12.7%), political class (11.3%), transport and mobility (11.2%), housing (10.7%), climate change (10.6%), etc.
In summary, the most notable findings of the study are that economic difficulties appear to be the main problem, which is also the factor that most affects the deterioration of citizens’ mental health. They also show concern about water shortages, health (especially waiting lists for specialties) or lack of affordable housing, and they are pessimistic about inflation and the growth of the economy.
They are also about the status of Mar Menor. They largely prefer traveling to Madrid by car, and point to the convenience of quality train service along the traditional route.
Citizens approve of public health care with an average of 5.2, although in a breakdown, the worst grade (4.8) is received by the Special Service. They demand a reduction in waiting lists in all areas, but especially in this one, for which they forcefully demand more staff. The overall evaluation is positive in all age groups, while due to political orientation voters of PP and Ciudadanos rated Primary Care slightly better and PSOE and hospital of other parties.
The study concludes that the deterioration of mental health has a very special impact (32.7%) believe that it is economic difficulties (unemployment, inflation…). Other events cited in a significant way are the pressures, demands and stresses of everyday life (22.2%) and global problems in the world such as pandemics, wars or climate change (18.2%).
In terms of housing, there is consensus among different age groups, and regardless of their political affiliation, pointing to the lack of affordable housing as the main problem, especially for 35.8% of those surveyed. Going into specifics, this is specifically indicated by people aged 18 to 44 and with an intention to vote from the PSOE.
Next, speculation in buying and selling ranks as the second problem with 14.9%, closely followed with 13.9% due to difficulties in financing its purchases.
Regarding the state of conservation of Mar Menor, those surveyed showed a high level of pessimism, as 60.1% believe it remains critical, and even for 19.1% the salty lagoon is unrecoverable. . However, 13.9% believe it is developing positively. This assessment is shared by voters across all age groups and across all parties.
In this order, they believe the causes are: nutrients of agricultural and livestock origin, insufficient urban water purification, urban development and tourism, climate change and rising water temperatures, and industrial and mining activities.
