The new generations must be agents of change, defining the city in which they want to live

The New Barcelona Post converses this month with Ivan Carballal, one of the young people participating in the leadership and city program taught by Barcelona Global, Barcelona 2040. Carballal is the Head of Connectivity and Commercial Tools at the insurer Zurich Seguros.

The objective of this series of interviews is for this new generation of leaders to share their vision for the Barcelona of the future they aspire to, as well as their impactful proposals for the improvement of the city.

--- What do you expect from Barcelona in 2040?

--- I imagine a more sustainable Barcelona, with better mobility, affordable housing, and less inequality. I advocate for the 15-minute city, where everything is within reach without depending on a car, fostering self-sufficient neighborhoods. In a dystopian future, where the internet is plagued with hate and fake interactions, with bots and AI, it will be key to reinforce real contact, boost neighborhood life, and expand green spaces, designing a city thought for people.

--- Which city would you compare Barcelona to?

--- I would compare it to Copenhagen for its commitment to sustainability, but without losing the dynamism of cities like New York or Berlin, which attract talent and diversity from all over the world. However, I am concerned that Barcelona might end up becoming the Bali of Europe, where the center is dominated by tourists and expats with higher salaries, displacing Catalans to dormitory towns on the periphery.

"Companies must integrate young people into their strategies to bring new perspectives"

--- Barcelona should follow a hybrid model that combines the best of several cities. Like Singapore, with its efficiency in mobility, innovation, and urban planning; like Amsterdam, with its commitment to sustainability, bicycle transport, and green spaces, and like Melbourne, prioritizing quality of life, cultural diversity, and a balance between economic growth and citizen well-being.

--- What is the main challenge Barcelona must solve in the coming years?

--- Barcelona's main challenge is to achieve a balance between development and quality of life. Access to housing must be a priority, avoiding speculation and facilitating affordable options for residents. Managing mass tourism is also key, promoting a more sustainable model. In addition, mobility must be improved, promoting public or collaborative transport and infrastructure without collapsing the city.

"Our role is to influence today to lead the city in 2040"

--- New generations must be agents of change, defining the city they want to live in. But, to achieve this, it is key that we are given space in decision-making bodies. Companies must integrate young people into their strategies to provide new perspectives. In my company, a Youth Committee has been created that advises the Works Council, just as Barcelona Global is committed to younger partners. Our role is to influence today to lead the city in 2040.

--- Which business sectors do you think Barcelona should bet on?

--- Barcelona is already a benchmark in tourism, restoration and services, but to continue advancing it must redefine its economic model. It is time to bet on technology and innovation, promoting the export of knowledge and development globally. With a solid entrepreneurial ecosystem, international talent and a qualified workforce, the city can become a key hub in artificial intelligence, biomedicine and renewable energies.