A commitment to the community
In a global context marked by uncertainty, the mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, has presented an innovative package of measures aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), self-employed individuals, and vulnerable families affected by the military conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran. This plan, amounting to €23 million, seeks to provide a rapid and coordinated response to the economic adversities generated by the war.
The presentation of the plan took place at a meeting with the Social Dialogue Table, which included prominent representatives from the business and union sectors, including Lluís Moreno, vice president of Foment del Treball; Alex Goñi, president of PIMEC; and the general secretaries of CC OO and UGT, Belén López and Camil Ros. During this meeting, Collboni highlighted the importance of consensus among different social actors to address current challenges.
One of the main initiatives of the plan is the €4 million expansion of the B-Crèdits program, designed to improve the financial liquidity of SMEs. According to Collboni, this measure will allow for a total mobilization of up to €16 million, thus providing crucial economic relief in difficult times. Additionally, an extra €2 million will be allocated to strengthen the informational and advisory services offered by Barcelona Activa, facilitating access to available aid.
Throughout his speech, Collboni emphasized that it is essential to ensure that no layoffs occur during this critical period. The union leaders present also stressed the need to prevent certain sectors from taking advantage of the situation to unjustifiably raise prices. “We must send a clear message: we are here to protect our citizens,” the mayor stated.
Despite his critical stance towards the military conflict in Iran, Collboni acknowledged that this situation could open new opportunities for Barcelona as a safe and peaceful destination. In this regard, he announced that the City Council is already actively working to attract investments and international events that could relocate from nearby conflict areas. With a specific fund of €4.8 million aimed at capturing new flight routes and strengthening the city as an international business hub, Barcelona is strategically positioning itself in light of global changes.
Despite the proactive approach of the City Council in addressing the economic difficulties arising from the military conflict, Collboni reiterated his firm opposition to war: “It makes no sense to continue with these destructive actions.” The city is thus preparing not only to face immediate challenges but also to build a more resilient future.
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