Demographic Dynamics and Urban Segregation of the Brazilian Population in Spanish Medium-Sized Cities: A Geo-Statistical Exploratory Analysis

Abstract

This article presents a preliminary and exploratory investigation into the distribution and segregation of the Brazilian-born population in medium-sized cities in Spain, addressing a gap in urban segregation studies within these urban contexts-an important aspect of Spanish urbanism due to their demographic dynamics, functionality, and urban connectivity. Using data from the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE), the research analyzes the evolution and impact of Brazilian immigration across 34 urban areas located in the Spanish hinterland over five periods (2003, 2007, 2012, 2017, and 2022). The Segregation Index (SI) is employed to assess patterns of urban segregation. Findings reveal the concentration of the Brazilian population along three main axes and suggest the possibility of regionalizing this spatial distribution based on sociodemographic, economic, and cultural characteristics. Although the SI does not provide a comprehensive picture of urban segregation, it raises the hypothesis of support networks among immigrants, as areas with a higher concentration of Brazilians generally presented lower SI values, tending to fall within low or moderate segregation levels. This study contributes to understanding the demographic and socio-spatial dynamics of Brazilians in Spain, emphasizing the role of medium-sized cities in immigrant settlement and urban structuring.

Keywords:
migration; urban segregation; medium-sized cities; Brazilian population; Spain