Do we live in a meritocracy?

YES
Many jobs in Spain have rigorous selection processes that judge
people according to their knowledge and skills. Public sector jobs are
awarded based on exams which are marked anonymously.
These selection processes separate the wheat from the chaff.
Because universities require students to speak English state schools
are starting bilingual programmes so that their students have a
better chance of entering into university.

There are many examples of Spanish people who have gone from
rags to riches. (i.e. from the lower classes to the upper classes)
Iker Casillas and Amancio Ortega Gaona for example.
Its now easier for the masses to start a business. The government
have rolled out a programme where self employed people under 30
years old only have to pay 50 a month in taxes.
The European Union protects the human rights of all its citizens and
guards against abuses of powers amongst member states.
The daughter of a taxi driver has become Queen.
New laws have been introduced to promote equality and prevent
discrimination.
We live in a democracy where all citizens can vote and therefore
decide how the country is run.
With the right attitude and hard work theres no limit to what
anyone can achieve in Spain.

NO
Its not what you know. Its who you know. Many people in Spain
gain access to jobs and opportunities through friends and family.

Cuts in education spending have lowered the standard of education in

state schools.
Children from good backgrounds have a lot more advantages. They
go to better schools, their parents take more interest, they have
more space to study and they have private tutors.
Statistics show that if you are born with a silver spoon in your
mouth youre more likely to be successful later on in life.
The 50 a month for entrepreneurs is time limited. Spanish state
schools dont teach leadership and entrepreneurship to their pupils.
The European Union is a paper tiger. Many citizens still suffer
discrimination despite what the law says.
The monarchy is a symbol of unearned wealth and privilege in our
society.
A lack of minorities in top jobs and differences in pay show that we
still dont have a level playing field. Discrimination and glass
ceilings still exist but now theyre more subtle.
The government proclaims the absolute equality of its citizens but
gives power and privileges to a small elite. i.e. All citizens are equal
but some are more equal than others.
Some people have to work a lot harder than others for the same
opportunities. i.e. Some people have to work their fingers to the
bone to be successful while others have everything handed to them
on a silver platter.