Migration, public space and coexistence in the Barcelona Metropolitan Region

Abstract

The arrival in recent years of immigrants to Spain and Catalonia has led to intense social and physical changes in the configuration of the urban area. The article analyzes the relationship between the immigrant population and everyday public spaces and interaction in the physical space between Spaniards and immigrants. The paper discusses 5 case studies in 5 neighbourhoods of the Barcelona Metropolitan Region with an above average ratio of immigrant population and with different social and urban characteristics. This paper reflects on the importance of the configuration of public spaces close to housing in the relationships established between the different groups. The importance of sharing actions to promote mutual understanding (in facilities, shops, etc.) to deconstruct the perception people have of the other ones.