The new generations must have an active role and get involved in the development of the city.

The New Barcelona Post converses this month with Andrea Puga Rabassó, one of the young professionals participating in Barcelona 2040, Barcelona Global's leadership and city program.

The objective of this interview series 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 hope to find a Barcelona that is committed to innovation, sustainability, and, in general, the social and economic development of the city. Barcelona is a global benchmark, and for this reason, we must continue working to face all the challenges that have appeared in recent years and those that will come in the future. I hope that Barcelona can find the balance between working to continue being a city that attracts impactful talent while guaranteeing the well-being and safety of its inhabitants.

--- Which city would you compare Barcelona to?

--- If you ask me, a lover of Barcelona, I would tell you that Barcelona is unique. However, there are cities that have similar aspects and challenges to Barcelona, such as Milan, regarding the housing challenge. I also see synergies with Berlin for being an international city that attracts talent and innovation, and with Amsterdam for its strong commitment to sustainable mobility within the city and its great cultural offer.

--- What city model do you think Barcelona should resemble?

--- Barcelona could look to cities like Copenhagen or Oslo, which have been working on their urban fabric for years to guarantee the sustainability and development of the city. Other interesting models could be Boston and San Francisco, which stand out for their strong commitment to scientific research, creating ecosystems of innovation and entrepreneurship.

"It is in our hands to work to build the Barcelona of the future"

--- Housing, tourism, and mobility are for me the main challenges Barcelona faces. We need policies that guarantee a balance between the city's economic development and the social well-being of its citizens. Efficient and effective management of these main challenges will be key for the future of Barcelona in 2040. To achieve this, it is necessary for administrations and entities to coordinate and for there to be greater public-private collaboration in their management.

--- What do you think should be the role of new generations and their involvement in the city's development?

--- New generations must play an active role and get involved in the city's development from any perspective. It is in our hands to work to build the Barcelona of the future, and for this, it is key to participate in projects, initiatives, and organizations whose objective is the city's progress. I believe that new generations are more aware of issues such as social equity, sustainability, the importance of climate change, and innovation as a value factor in society, and therefore, we can provide a more conscious and innovative vision to face the challenges that arise. And organizations like Barcelona Global are a powerful platform for new generations to use as a loudspeaker and get involved in projects and initiatives that work for the city's development.

"The Barcelona of 2040 should bet on the industry sector"

--- The industry sector has always played a very important role in Barcelona, as during the 19th and 20th centuries it was one of the biggest drivers of economic growth. The Barcelona of 2040 should bet on this sector by focusing on digital transformation for the improvement of processes and digital capabilities, while fostering the sustainable development of the sector. Boosting this sector will not only strengthen the companies that comprise it, but will also enhance the Barcelona brand internationally, and improve the city's competitiveness worldwide.