A step towards educational decentralization
The Council of Ministers has given the green light to the transfer of powers to the Basque Country, marking a milestone in the decentralization of the university sphere. Starting next July 1, the region will have the power to approve university degrees, including such relevant specialties as Medicine, Nursing, Nutrition and Physiotherapy.
This decision, framed in an agreement between PSOE and PNV, arises as a result of an agreement last November, where the Basque nationalists gave their vote to Pedro Sánchez for his investiture as President of the Government.
The commitment to transfer powers, established in the investiture document, implies the ‘non-extendable’ resolution of these tasks within a period of two years, with priority exceptions within a period of three months, especially in relation to the homologation of titles and foreign studies. The objective: expedite validation processes at the state level to meet the demand for health professionals in the region.
A process underway for years
According to government sources, this transfer of powers is the culmination of a process that began in 2011. Until now, the autonomy could only manage homologation up to secondary education. This measure reinforces what was recently agreed in the Joint Transfer Commission of the State Administration-Autonomous Community of the Basque Country.
The Royal Decree that regulates this transfer of powers will come into force on April 19, making it easier for foreigners residing in the Basque Country to request validation of university degrees.
Expansion of competencies in social assistance
In addition to university powers, the Council of Ministers has also approved the transfer of State services to the Basque Country in the areas of Health, Social Services and Assistance. This will allow the region to assume functions such as the provision of social, psychological, legal and cultural support, as well as socio-labor advice.
The corresponding Royal Decree will come into force on January 1, 2025, marking the beginning of a new model for the distribution of powers in the international protection reception system. This model will allow the autonomous communities to provide support to people who are beneficiaries of temporary international protection, such as refugees in accordance with International Law.
Despite these transfers, the General State Administration will maintain normative and regulatory functions in these areas, ensuring the cohesion and correct functioning of the system.
It is important to note that the information provided in this article comes from official sources and health professionals, but it is recommended to consult with a corresponding health specialist if you have any health-related questions.
