A neighborhood in crisis: the testimony of the residents
Sant Antoni, one of the most emblematic neighborhoods of Barcelona, has become a scene of concern for its residents, who have decided to raise their voices against the growing insecurity. This district, along with the Raval, has been marked by a notable increase in crime and uncivil acts that have left the community in a state of alarm.
The reaction of the neighbors to the discontent
The program Altaveu de La 2 on Spanish Television has collected the voices of residents who live this reality day by day. Their experiences reflect a generalized feeling of frustration and helplessness in the face of the current situation. One resident highlights that ‘the insecurity is palpable’, both for pedestrians and for local businesses, which face constant thefts.
Thefts: a common threat
Another resident, Roger, expresses his indignation, stating that ‘the city council has completely abandoned the area.’ With a sense of desperation, he announces that the residents are ‘about to take protest measures’ to demand an effective response to the situation of insecurity and cleanliness that affects them.
The legacy of urban policies
The neighborhood was one of the protagonists of the super-block project during the Ada Colau era, with the intention of transforming the urban space and promoting a more active community life. However, this initiative has resulted in the creation of areas that, instead of being revitalized, have become meeting points for criminals and anti-social behaviour.
Lighting and infrastructure: factors that aggravated the situation
In addition, ongoing construction and insufficient lighting have contributed to increased insecurity, attracting individuals looking to take advantage of the neighborhood’s vulnerability. The residents are calling for an immediate solution to return Sant Antoni to the state it had previously enjoyed.
A community that doesn’t give up
The voices of the residents resonate with a call to action. With comments such as ‘the degradation of Sant Antoni is a legacy that we cannot accept’, the residents express their determination to fight for a better future. Their hope is that the authorities will listen to their demands and act before more residents decide to leave the neighborhood.
A reflection on the future of the neighborhood
At a time when the community is at a turning point, the residents of Sant Antoni are uniting to demand a clear and immediate response. Their fight not only seeks to restore safety but also to restore the quality of life in a neighborhood that has been a benchmark for coexistence and diversity.