Social innovations in Barcelona

The city of Barcelona is characterized by an innovative social policy. A pilot test was carried out with the introduction of a basic universal income at the local level for a collective of 950 in-need families in neighborhoods with low per capita income. Part of the basic income was paid in a new currency, the so-called REC. The REC can only be used to buy locally or regionally produced goods to support the local economy. The pilot test has led to positive results that are to be transferred to other parts of the city.

Another very innovative social project aims to transform the empty rooftops of public buildings into community farms. The project especially targets people with disabilities and has been awarded by the European Union.