Globalization has transformed the role of cities in the world, causing them to compete to attract talent and capital. The mayor of Barcelona himself has made a clear commitment to talent with the confidence that investments will follow. He is not wrong. The Global Power City Index (GPCI) 2024 analyzes the global strength of 48 of the world's largest cities, evaluating factors such as technology, sustainability, culture, and quality of life. Cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Lisbon are in constant competition, seeking to position themselves as global leaders in various areas, and talent is always one of the factors for prosperity. Barcelona and Madrid, of course, are also in this race, striving to stand out in the fields of research, education, and innovation.
In the context of this competition, and although the concrete changes that the Trump administration will introduce in medical research, universities, or residence permits are not yet entirely clear, an unexpected opportunity has been created for European cities. The reduction of public funds from the American administration can profoundly alter the activities and professions of many researchers and scientists, who are now looking for better conditions to continue with their projects.
Cities like Barcelona, with a vibrant research ecosystem and its support for entrepreneurship, can benefit from this situation by attracting scientists and researchers who had previously emigrated to the United States in search of better opportunities. This return of European talent would not only represent an economic benefit but also a strategic one, as it would allow for the recovery and enhancement of human capital that was once lost due to a lack of opportunities in Europe.
We must pay our scientists much better if they are truly strategic for our economic developmentHowever, to facilitate the return of this talent and, ultimately, the attraction of international talent, concrete measures must be taken. First, ensure the funding of research lines; without resources there is no possibility of advancing in science.Second, offer competitive salaries comparable to those in the place of origin. We must pay our scientists much better if they are truly strategic for our economic development. Third, implement a tax system that facilitates the return of talent, even if it is a temporary solution, but adequate for their landing. And fourth, streamline administrative procedures.
Administrations have long taken action on the matter. On the one hand, European researchers who have spent a minimum of 5 years abroad and want to come to Spain will benefit from the application of the impatriate regime, paying taxes for 5 years under a special regime. On the other hand, Law 14/2013 created the so-called Large Companies and Strategic Collectives Unit (including research personnel), with the purpose of streamlining procedures and visas. The President of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa, has just announced 30 million euros to reinforce university systems with the purpose of attracting this talent. This is very good news.
The pieces on the board are aligned for success but, before celebrating, it is crucial that all operations work and that we do not get lost in excessive bureaucracy, lest we lose talent along the way.