An expanding phenomenon
The situation in Catalonia becomes more and more worrying, with a significant increase in tensions between groups of young people and police forces. In the course of 2024, 2,550 violent incidents were counted, which represents an alarming average of seven daily incidents. The preliminary data of 2025 already indicate a worrying start, with 223 aggressions recorded only in January.
Affected territories
Conflicts are not limited to areas with a history of violence, such as the La Mina district. Increasingly, various areas such as Salt, Mariola in Lleida, or the Font de la Pólvora in Girona are facing a climb of violence. Even in places where massive clashes have not been experienced, such as Sant Cosme in El Prat or parts of the Raval de Barcelona, the pressure exerted by drug dealers limits coexistence.
The causes of violence
Two main factors seem to contribute to this situation. The first is the significant increase in immigration in Catalonia and the lack of effective strategies to integrate these new residents. Currently, more than 25% of the population of Catalonia is of foreign origin, and this figure grows considerably if we include the children of immigrant families. In Barcelona, for example, 31% of the inhabitants are foreigners.
Impact on crime
Criminality data reflects disturbing correlation. By 2024, arrests in Barcelona show that 78.6% of those of arrests were people of foreign origin, with high rates in crimes such as drug trafficking and thefts.
The growth of drug trafficking
The second key factor is the expansion of the drug market. Catalonia has become an important cannabis producer, feeding a violent competition between criminal groups. Firearms, formerly common, have become a common element among young people, as evidenced by police interventions that have discovered pistols and revolvers.
International Mafias
In addition, international drug trafficking mafias are settled in Catalonia, attentive to a local market that seems to be lacking in control. If immediate measures are not taken, Catalonia could end up following the path of other countries where the drug trafficking has destabilized society.
The institutional response
It is alarming that both the media and politicians, including the opposition, are not approaching the seriousness of the situation with the firmness it requires. The solutions presented are often limited to long -term plans that do not address the immediate needs of the community.
Symbolic investments
Barcelona City Council has announced an investment of 30 million euros to combat poverty, but the analysis reveals that only a small part of this sum will go directly to the needy, while most will be invested in infrastructure.
A necessary reflection
Catalonia is at a critical moment. Authorities must take responsibility for recognizing and dealing with the social problems that are being exacerbated before they become uncontrollable. Ignoring reality will only make the situation worse.