Mayor Jaume Collboni defends cities as "the first line of defense for democracy"

Barcelona's mayor, Jaume Collboni, emphasized the role of cities as a defense against polarization and extremism, stating that order and security are essential for democracy. He highlighted the need for social cohesion and security to foster progress and prevent unrest, referencing recent disturbances. Collboni praised collaborative institutions and outlined key factors for urban progress: transformation, cohesion, and shared horizons. He stressed the importance of housing for opportunities, particularly for youth, and advocated for public housing and services. He concluded by calling for responsible urban development to enhance daily life and democracy.