The situation of homelessness in Barcelona has become alarming, with a recent report revealing that more than 2,000 people spend their nights sleeping rough in the city. This phenomenon has gained particular visibility in areas like Avenida del Litoral, where dozens of individuals have set up tents in search of shelter.
A bleak landscape among the flowerbeds
In the vicinity of Plaza de los Campions, there are more than 50 tents, where young men mainly from Senegal, Gambia, Algeria, and Morocco are trying to survive. Fati, a Gambian immigrant who arrived about 15 months ago, shares his experience while waiting for a response to his application to regularise his work status. "With the help of volunteers, I have submitted all the necessary documentation," he comments.
Life in these conditions is tough; many try to make their surroundings more habitable by decorating their spaces with everyday objects and seeking creative ways to maintain a routine. Some residents have recently been evicted from other settlements and now face the daily challenge of surviving without a home.
Sandra, a local woman aged 51, is also part of the human landscape that characterises this area. After facing personal issues and mental health problems, she shares a tent with her partner near Plaza Cobi. "There are other women here who live with their partners; it's a small group trying to support each other," she explains while preparing a cigarette.
Despite the evident suffering, some manage to find small joys in their daily lives. Fati spends his time drawing and chatting with friends like Orville, who works in a restaurant after managing to regularise his status years ago.
The City Council has identified 148 citizens sleeping rough between Park Carles I and the Forum just this May. This figure includes both newcomers and those who have been living on the streets for some time. Social services are actively working to address this humanitarian crisis; however, many still do not receive adequate assistance.
Despite the municipal effort to offer temporary or permanent housing solutions, the streets remain home to thousands.
As the year 2026 progresses, local authorities recognise the urgent need to implement effective policies to address this growing issue. The combination of extreme poverty and lack of access to basic services is pushing more people into vulnerable situations.
As temperatures begin to drop with the arrival of the European winter, non-governmental organisations are ramping up their efforts to provide immediate assistance to those living in these precarious conditions. However, many affected express frustration at what they consider an inadequate response from the local government.
Sandra mentions: "Sometimes I feel like we are invisible; we need more support."
As Barcelona faces this growing humanitarian challenge, it is clear that effective collaboration between public and private institutions is required to offer sustainable long-term solutions for those trapped in the cycle of homelessness.
Closing with context on homelessness
The increase in homelessness not only affects the individuals directly involved but also negatively impacts the entire Barcelona community. The contrasting images between vibrant public spaces and the grim realities faced by these citizens highlight an urgent social crisis that demands immediate attention and collective compassion.
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