Copper Cable Thefts Soar in Catalonia, Worsening Rodalies Crisis
Copper cable thefts in Catalonia have reached an eight-year high in the first half of the year, exacerbating the ongoing crisis affecting the Rodalies commuter rail service.
200 stories found
Copper cable thefts in Catalonia have reached an eight-year high in the first half of the year, exacerbating the ongoing crisis affecting the Rodalies commuter rail service.
A 97-year-old woman has drowned in a private swimming pool in Lleida, Spain. This incident marks the tenth fatal drowning in pools across Catalonia since the swimming season began on June 15.
Marc Puigtió, former mayor of Sant Julià de Ramis, has announced his departure from the ERC party and all institutional positions, following his earlier decision to not run as the party's candidate in Girona.
Junts has accused Salvador Illa of 'sinking' Catalonia and 'deteriorating coexistence' after two years of his government, criticizing the president for being 'absent' during crises and 'obedient' to PSOE interests.
Intense rainfall has spread across half of Catalonia, leading to train service disruptions on the R3 line between Vic and Ripoll due to fallen trees, and a landslide closing the N-145 road near the Andorra border.
The President of Catalonia, Salvador Illa, has called on citizens to avoid travel on the AP-7 highway due to an upcoming eclipse, as the Generalitat prepares a special mobility, security, and emergency plan.
Spanish National Police have dismantled a section of a Mexican organized crime group, the Jalisco cartel, in Catalonia. The operation uncovered labs in Lleida capable of manufacturing large quantities of synthetic drugs, with 300 kilograms of methamphetamine produced in two days.
La Vanguardia is inviting readers to share photographs of the total solar eclipse scheduled for August 12, 2026, an astronomical event that will be visible across Catalonia.
More than 2,000 people died in Spain due to heat in July, double the number from the previous year, with Catalonia alone reporting 730 heat-related deaths, surpassing its total for the entire summer of 2025.
Catalonia has consolidated its employment figures at four million occupied individuals and led job creation in July, despite a slight increase of 7,705 unemployed people during the month.
The Ebro Hydrographic Confederation (CHE) has issued a warning about potential flooding in riverbeds and ravines across Catalonia and Aragon, following yellow alerts from Aemet forecasting intense rainfall.
International tourist spending in Spain has increased by 7% to reach 63.8 billion euros by June, with Catalonia accounting for 18.5% of the total accumulated spending.
The Prosecutor's Office is investigating potential irregularities in aid provided to young adults formerly under the care of the DGAIA, Catalonia's child protection agency, following a parliamentary commission's findings.
A historian is researching the significant economic benefits generated by the slave trade in Catalonia during the 18th and 19th centuries, revealing that well-known slaveholding families are just a small part of a larger system.
A PISA report has revealed a high exclusion rate in Catalonia's internal educational assessments, with a fifth of students being discounted from the evaluations.
Catalan President Salvador Illa has declared the financing model a priority, moving the focus away from the transfer of income tax, while also highlighting achievements in "normalization, stability, and predictability" in Catalonia and acknowledging significant areas for improvement such as housing, Rodalies, and education.
An expert report can reduce inheritance tax by up to 20% for families in Catalonia who pay more than market value, though the legal process to correct it can take nearly two years.
From Singapore, President Illa defended diversity as a 'source of wealth' against 'discourses of fear,' positioning the Asian country as a mirror for Catalonia, stating 'you don't have to be big to be influential.'
Boost Air, the airline group led by Pablo Casado, is reportedly considering Lleida airport in Catalonia as the location for a new aircraft transformation center focused on defense.
An external auditing body in Catalonia has found that 64% of school canteen contracts do not comply with the law, also noting that six government delegations abroad ended 2024 with over 50% surplus funds.

The High Court of Justice of Catalonia partially granted a father's appeal regarding his daughter's education, ordering a new school in Maresme to teach an additional subject in Spanish, beyond the Spanish Language class, in favor of bilingualism.
The Spanish government is defending the pardon granted to Borràs, stating it aims to normalize the political situation in Catalonia. Minister Óscar López highlighted the utility of both the amnesty and pardons in restoring coexistence after the independence process crisis.
The Generalitat of Catalonia has declared a new 'war,' this time against rabbits, alongside other issues, indicating a focused effort to address specific local problems.

The Spanish government warned Catalonia over a year ago that it was excluding too many students from the PISA report, but the issue was not resolved. The Ministry detected these exclusions during the PISA test itself.
Meritxell Serret, former Minister of Agriculture in Carles Puigdemont's regional government of Catalonia, has become the first member of his separatist administration to be amnestied under the 2024 law.
The creation of a public dance company, the National Ballet of Catalonia, at the Teatre Nacional de Catalunya (TNC) has sparked reactions within the dance sector.
Many Latin American immigrants arriving in Catalonia are reportedly not inclined to engage with or learn the Catalan language.
The President of Catalonia, Salvador Illa, has reinforced a "strategic partnership" with Vietnam, focusing on commercial alliances in areas such as football, technology, and tourism.
An article investigates the PISA results in Catalonia, questioning how an exclusion rate four times higher than the OECD's recommendation went undetected and which control mechanisms failed.
A new housing decree in Catalonia includes tax bonuses for landlords and prohibits the extension of temporary contracts currently in force.
A survey and data from the Ministry of Finance reveal that the state invested more than double in Madrid compared to Catalonia in 2025, sparking a debate on disproportionate state investment.
The Generalitat of Catalonia is establishing 23 official locations for the safe observation of the total solar eclipse on August 12. A special operation will be deployed, involving 700 Mossos d'Esquadra units, drones, and helicopters to manage the event.
The President is traveling to Vietnam to strengthen institutional relations with Asia and will also visit Singapore to position Catalonia as a commercial ally.
A court in Catalonia has ordered provisional imprisonment for the individual arrested in connection with the violent death of a woman in Soses, with the case opened for a homicide charge.
Catalonia has been placed on maximum alert for wildfire risk starting today and extending through the weekend, as the region faces its most critical period for fires this summer.
Researchers from the UAB have uncovered remains of a camp near Collet de Jovell, shedding light on the final conflict between indigenous populations and Roman forces in Catalonia.

An analysis discusses Spain's World Cup triumph, noting its celebration across the country, including in Catalonia and Basque Country, and its implications for national unity.
Investment in ministries allocates 1,000 million euros more to Madrid than to Catalonia, indicating that the 'capital effect' negatively impacts public spending in the Catalan community.

A six-year-old child drowned in a hotel pool in Calella, and an adult died on a beach in Castelló d'Empúries, marking a tragic start to summer in Catalonia. These incidents bring the total number of drowning deaths in Catalan pools to seven since June 15.
The article reports on Feijóo's belief that Catalonia is still attempting to recover from a significant 'toxic process,' implying a need for a 'first aid manual' for the region.
Catalonia is leading in mortgage signings, a trend attributed to the scarcity of rental properties in the region, a situation also seen in Castilla-La Mancha.
Catalonia received only 8.6% of the total investment executed by the Spanish state in its autonomous communities last year, despite a 28.5% increase in spending compared to 2023.
An article highlights camping opportunities along Catalonia's Costa Brava, focusing on preserved natural oases away from mass tourism.
Catalonia has experienced its hottest start to summer on record, with temperatures exceeding the climatic average by 3.8°C.
Catalonia has seen an increase in births for the first time since 2008, with the average age of maternity now 32.8 years and the average age for a first child at 31.8 years, both higher than the previous year.
Castellana Properties, which owns 50% of the Splau shopping center, is actively looking to acquire new assets in Catalonia as part of its expansion strategy.
The Spanish government and Catalan officials are discussing the deployment of 91 new judge positions and 35 prosecutor positions in Catalonia, approved to begin implementation by year-end.
Firefighters have stabilized forest fires in Rubió and Cunit, Catalonia, after working through the night. The blazes had previously consumed 25 hectares in Rubió and led to the confinement of three urbanizations.
Firefighters are working to control a forest fire in Rubió, Catalonia, which has already consumed 25 hectares. Civil Protection has also ordered the confinement of three urbanizations due to another fire declared between Cunit and Cubelles.
Madrid has reactivated a yellow alert for temperatures expected to reach 38°C, with a high risk also present in Catalonia, Aragon, Navarra, and La Rioja.

A proposed reform would financially benefit Catalonia, granting it an additional 92 euros per inhabitant, even though it already receives 93 euros more per inhabitant than Madrid. Catalonia contributes 8% of its tax capacity to the common fund compared to Madrid's 26%, but has higher debt due to greater per-capita spending on welfare.
The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in Catalonia is facing difficulties in filling job vacancies related to Artificial Intelligence, despite employing 166,000 people, double the number a decade ago.
Four individuals have been arrested for illegally introducing French toxic waste into Catalonia, burying it in Sant Esteve Sesrovires and other locations in the province of Barcelona as part of a criminal network.
This article commemorates the 90th anniversary of the founding of the PSUC (Unified Socialist Party of Catalonia).
Catalonia is currently experiencing its third heatwave of the summer, expected to last until at least Wednesday, prompting firefighters to establish operational reinforcements across all emergency regions.
Bankinter's 'V CFO FrontLine Report' in Barcelona highlights the evolving role of financial directors, with Catalonia ranking among the regions with the highest maturity in automation for financial functions.
A suspected case of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever has been detected in Catalonia. The affected individual remains hospitalized at the Clínic hospital.
Catalonia is debating a law in Parliament that seeks to restrict the purchase of homes, ensuring that properties can only be used as habitual residences. An accompanying survey asks if people approve of restricting housing purchases in the region.
Catalonia will be filled with photographic images this summer, featuring festivals like Lumínic de Sant Cugat and Biennal Xavier Miserachs de Palafrugell, alongside exhibitions dedicated to artists like Minor White, Anna Turbau, and Max de Esteban.
The Filmoteca is transforming its archive into a major conversation spanning 50 years of feminism, with the 'Feminismes fílmics. 1976-2026' exhibition bringing together works from 55 filmmakers and artists to trace an audiovisual genealogy of feminist struggles in Catalonia.
All active forest fires in Catalonia have been stabilized, following a period where multiple blazes led to confinements in various zones.

Junts has rejected the funding proposal from Illa and ERC for Catalonia, arguing that the region would only gain 200 million euros, not the 4.7 billion claimed, making their vote crucial for the model's approval in Congress.
An in-depth look is provided into the financial accounts of the Generalitat, the government of Catalonia.
Salvador Illa, the President of Catalonia, defended his administration's handling of wildfires against accusations of negligence, emphasizing that such crises are not resolved through confrontation and highlighting his distance from environmentalist groups.
A fire burning vegetation near train tracks between Martorell and Sant Sadurní d'Anoia has forced the closure of the Rodalies line, with firefighters working to extinguish the blaze.
Isabel Díaz Ayuso, regional president, has denounced preferential treatment for Catalonia, alleging an attempt to create a 'paralegal nation.' She frames budget negotiations as a comparative grievance and predicts a 'hot autumn' fueled by Moncloa.
Wildfires have broken out in several regions of Catalonia, Spain, with the blaze in Les Gavarres still uncontrolled, posing a significant challenge to the region.
An article questioning the oversight and security measures in place for the Rodalies commuter rail service in Catalonia.
Catalonia has maintained an alert for intense rainfall and potential flooding in its northwestern region, following the activation of a warning yesterday due to rising water risks.
Catalonia has reactivated its Inuncat flood plan in anticipation of intense storms and the risk of river swelling this Friday and Saturday. Civil Protection urges the public to exercise extreme caution in areas prone to rapid water accumulation, such as ravines and torrents.
Catalonia's emergency services received over 400 calls during an episode of intense rainfall and storms on Thursday, leading to the deactivation of the Inuncat alert.
Catalonia has activated its Inuncat flood plan in anticipation of strong storms forecast for Thursday afternoon, with Civil Protection advising residents to avoid rivers and ravines due to expected rainfall of up to 40 liters per square meter in 30 minutes.
The Catalan government has commissioned Telefónica to develop a new mobile unit designed to ensure reliable communications during forest fire incidents.

A major clandestine methamphetamine laboratory, linked to the Jalisco cartel and capable of producing 2.5 tons of the drug diluted in vanilla liquid, was dismantled in Catalonia, Spain, leading to 13 arrests.

Junts has warned Pedro Sánchez that they will not provide any votes if Catalonia is not excluded from the distribution of unaccompanied minors arriving in Ceuta. Míriam Nogueras highlighted her party's pressure on the PSOE for a 2025 agreement on migrant minor distribution.
The Generalitat, Catalonia's government, has improved vocational training (FP) placements for the second consecutive summer, with nearly 9 out of 10 students securing a spot. While 12,700 students remain without a place, many have opted for private education, university, or the job market.
The article highlights eight unique naturist beaches in Catalonia, from the iconic Illa Roja to the vast sands of El Torn, noted for their beauty, history, and atmosphere.
Un estudio del Institut de Medicina Legal i Ciències Forenses de Catalunya constata que las barreras sociales y económicas elevan el riesgo de ahogamiento mortal y reclama un acceso equitativo al…
Train circulation on Rodalies lines R2Sud, R13, R14, and R15 between Cunit and Sant Vicenç has been interrupted following a pedestrian being hit by a train.
This article provides a selection of the top 10 adults-only hotels in Catalonia, based on high user ratings from Booking.com, offering a guide for a relaxing getaway.
Civil Protection in Catalonia has activated an alert phase for intense rainfall, with the Inuncat plan warning of an episode that could bring up to 20 liters per square meter in half an hour to the Pyrenees and Terres de l'Ebre regions.

Catalonia's high rate of student exclusion from PISA tests, at 23% compared to the 5% maximum for statistical validity, has impacted Spain's overall sample, though the OECD has deemed it valid.
The Ombudsman of Catalonia has launched an official inquiry into the impact of PISA results, requesting information on student exclusion causes and supervision. This follows reports from participating schools that received ambiguous instructions regarding the maximum 5% exclusion limit.
Catalonia has accumulated a 13 billion euro deficit in executed state investments since 2009, with contractors reporting that only 57% of the budgeted amount for 2025 was actually carried out.
An article discusses the paradoxical nature of a successful ecosystem in Catalonia, exploring its unique characteristics and challenges.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has defended the pardon of Borrás, stating it has "nothing to do with politics" and citing the TSJC (High Court of Justice of Catalonia). He also avoided commenting on the former Civil Guard director's indictment, citing presumption of innocence.
The European Prediction Center anticipates an extraordinary El Niño event, which is projected to significantly alter tropical Pacific temperatures and potentially impact Catalonia.
The OECD, which produces the PISA report, stated that they discovered an unprecedented 23% exclusion rate in Catalonia for PISA 2025, significantly higher than the 10% threshold. The organization informed the ministry immediately after finding the data in March 2026.
Catalonia has introduced rent limits in 302 municipalities, aiming to regulate housing costs across the region. The effectiveness of extending rental agreements under these new regulations is being evaluated.

The nationalist school model designed by Pujol in Catalonia is reportedly collapsing, clashing with the new social and cultural reality of the region, which differs significantly from the 1990s and 2017.
The saturation of the electricity grid is identified as a major bottleneck for housing construction in Catalonia, contributing to the region's persistent housing deficit.
Catalonia is at the forefront of job creation and unemployment reduction in Spain, with the number of unemployed individuals falling by 21% in the second quarter of the year compared to the previous period, bringing the unemployment rate below 8%.
An article discusses the varying timeframes for accepting or renouncing an inheritance in Spain, noting that while there isn't always an automatic deadline, a notarial requirement can reduce it to 30 days under common law or two months in Catalonia.
Catalonia has experienced another disappointing performance in the latest PISA report, indicating a continued struggle in educational outcomes.
A decline in renewable energy production in Catalonia has led to increased external energy dependence, with clean energy covering only 15.3% of demand in 2025, falling short of 2030 targets.
An energy alarm has been raised in Catalonia, indicating concerns about the region's energy situation.
The Bombers de la Generalitat, Catalonia's fire department, has a specialized unit that records images of fires to study their evolution and improve firefighting techniques.
An unidentified artist, dubbed the 'Banksy of erotic ceramics,' has been placing small clay pieces with sexual drawings and couplets on bridges and aqueducts across Catalonia since 2022, with nearly 2,000 pieces cataloged, fueling their myth.
A series of reports by La Vanguardia journalist Toni Muñoz, titled 'Mafia Stories,' delves into the activities of various mafia clans in Catalonia, covering traffickers, silences, corpses, and secrets.
A parliamentary commission in Catalonia has failed to determine if fraud occurred or who was responsible for millionaire irregularities within the Dgaia, leaving the incidents unpunished.

A 95-year-old driver in Catalonia successfully renewed her driving license on her first attempt, sparking widespread admiration. This incident highlights that age does not always correlate with driving ability.
This article details a summer itinerary through the Ripollès region, known as the cradle of Catalonia, tracing the historical path of Catalan nobility in the Girona Pyrenees.
A cable theft incident in La Sagrera has caused significant delays for high-speed train services between Barcelona and Girona, following a similar copper theft that cut Rodalies circulation days earlier.
This year's Diada demonstration will be decentralized, with events held in Barcelona, Girona, and Amposta. In Barcelona, two columns will converge in Plaça Catalunya.
ERC (Republican Left of Catalonia) has criticized the Catalan government for the low level of state investment in Catalonia, calling it a 'failure of Illa.' The party also expressed disappointment with the PSOE's 'humiliation' of the Catalan executive and Junts' rejection of the investment consortium.
The Generalitat of Catalonia has declared the Tres Xemeneies project in Sant Adrià de Besòs as strategic, aiming to ensure the necessary electrical capacity for future businesses in the region.
Catalan business associations are strongly protesting the low level of state investment in Catalonia, arguing it is stifling the regional economy. They highlight that the state invested more than double in Madrid compared to Catalonia in 2025.
Comisiones Obreras is hosting the celebration of the 90th anniversary of the PSUC (Unified Socialist Party of Catalonia), a party that served as the main bastion of political resistance during Franco's regime in Catalonia.
The Santa Maria de la Seu d'Urgell cathedral is an exceptional monument, featuring a majestic 12th-century cloister with galleries housing over 50 sculpted capitals depicting vegetal motifs, human figures, and popular bestiary.

Queen Letizia of Spain chose a flowing Hugo Boss dress and espadrilles for her engagements in Catalonia. Her preferred 80-euro espadrilles are highlighted as a savior for sore feet.

Carles Puigdemont has celebrated a 'resounding victory' in the EU with the amnesty law and has threatened to once again pursue Catalonia's independence. Junqueras, who remains disqualified, also demanded the immediate application of the law to be eligible for upcoming Catalan regional elections.
An article explores various summer travel destinations, including Catalonia, Asturias, the Black Forest, and Turkey, offering ideas for those still planning their holidays.

Six out of ten small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Catalonia are struggling to fill job vacancies due to the region's housing crisis. High housing costs mean that salaries often do not compensate employees enough to live in the area.
The Junts party has requested reports from the Spanish government regarding the regularization of migrants and the process for assigning voters in the CERA (Census of Absent Residents) under the 'grandchildren's law'.
Waste from e-commerce is expected to increase by 40% in just five years, with cardboard accounting for 97% of emissions from materials used in online retail in Spain and Catalonia.
The Catalan government has unveiled a four-year plan to develop 930 kilometers of smart roads, preparing the region for the advent of autonomous vehicles.

Ada Colau, former mayor of Barcelona, intends to appoint a housing commissioner to tackle speculative property buying in Catalonia. The proposed head of the 'Dirección General de Disciplina de Vivienda' previously received two direct contracts from the Generalitat, one for a report on the law to pursue property owners and another for training.
The STEPV union in Valencia, Spain, is proposing to replicate Catalonia's protest model for the upcoming school year, combining mobilization with institutional pressure and planning a demonstration on September 12.

The Supreme Court has dealt a setback to the Generalitat by annulling a section of the document regarding the organization and management of public schools and institutes in Catalonia for the 2022-2023 academic year, which excluded Castilian from school signs.

Madrid's leader, Ayuso, praised the city's F1 'Madring' model, contrasting it with Catalonia's Montmeló and accusing critics of trying to prevent the Madrid Grand Prix.
An article from La Vanguardia describes a fatalistic mood in Catalonia, suggesting that only a major national pact could address the current sentiment.
Catalonia is reflecting on its identity, moving from the sentiment of "Spain robs us" to the perceived threat of a "caliphate."
Cooperative housing initiatives are making significant progress in Catalonia as a viable solution to the ongoing housing crisis, with more than half of the developments in the region currently in project or construction phases.
DO Catalunya (Designation of Origin Catalonia) is initiating a summer campaign aimed at enhancing the visibility and presence of its wines in various sales points. The president, Xavier Pié, also noted efforts to adapt to lower-alcohol or partially dealcoholized wines while maintaining their origin.
This article explores the political question in Catalonia regarding the potential return of Carles Puigdemont versus the timing of new elections. It delves into the current political landscape and future scenarios for the region.
An article explains how saving 2,000 euros per month can become expensive in Catalonia in the long run, as the rising value of real estate and financial assets increases the number of affected taxpayers annually.
The first allocation of university places in Catalonia will be published on July 10, revealing the minimum access scores for each degree program for the 2026 academic year.
Regions like Costa Daurada, Priorat, Terres de l’Ebre, Penedès, and rural areas with minimal light pollution such as Prades, offer a wide and varied selection of options to observe the upcoming eclipse while enjoying local wines.

The Basque Country has achieved 'participation' for its police in immigrant expulsions, a competence that Catalonia has long desired and was promised by the PSOE for 2025 but never granted.
Catalonia is experiencing a significant number of active fires, with over 150 declared, leading to concerns that 2026 could be a tragic summer for the region.

Regions in Spain, including Andalucía, Catalonia, and Castilla-La Mancha, have established specialized units to predict wildfire behavior using models based on decades of incident data.

Several regions in eastern Spain, including Catalonia, Valencia, and Zaragoza, have been placed under a red alert due to an extreme heatwave. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 42 degrees Celsius, posing an exceptional danger to the population.
A criminal group specializing in stealing high-end bicycles across Catalonia has been dismantled in Reus, with Mossos d'Esquadra arresting two individuals. The suspects were involved in thefts in multiple locations including Castelldefels, Barcelona, Vinyols, Els Arcs, Mataró, Premià de Mar, and El Masnou.

The Spanish government is reportedly open for the first time to allowing some autonomous communities, particularly Catalonia, to have higher deficit targets than others, a move strongly opposed by PP-governed regions.
Salvador Illa's government in Catalonia, despite having secured budgets and solid alliances with ERC and Comuns, is reportedly struggling to make progress on priority issues.

A father and son from Granollers, Catalonia, have been arrested in Paraguay, accused of a double murder in the southern part of the country. The two Catalans are facing charges related to the killings.
An article from La Vanguardia discusses an upcoming summer afternoon event in Catalonia where the region is expected to 'go dark', prompting residents to prepare for potential power disruptions or an astronomical phenomenon.
The OECD spent two critical months deliberating with its technical bodies to determine if Catalonia's PISA results met international standards following an error.

Catalonia's financing surplus reportedly increased by 43% in 2024, with each Catalan receiving 93 euros more than the average, as the government pushes for a new funding model agreed upon with ERC.
The Junts party has emphasized its opposition to the distribution of unaccompanied minors to Catalonia and is demanding full immigration competencies for the region, citing a decree approved last year regarding the distribution of minors from the Canary Islands.
ERC president Oriol Junqueras has proposed forming a team of experts, agreed upon by parties and stakeholders, to lead Catalonia's Education Department for 12 years to ensure stability and continuity.

A controversy has emerged regarding PISA test results in Spain, with allegations that regions like Catalonia excluded a high percentage of students (23%) compared to others like Castilla y León and Asturias (2%), which the OECD denies as widespread manipulation.
The High Court of Justice of Catalonia (TSJC) has upheld the dismissal of a 112 emergency operator who was found to have terminated emergency calls without following established protocols.
Tourism in the Valencian Community saw increased revenue, with foreign travelers spending 7.394 billion euros in the first six months, but it exhibits the lowest daily spending per person in Spain (137 euros) and the longest average stay (nearly 9 days), widening the gap with Madrid and Catalonia.
A 73-year-old man has drowned in a municipal swimming pool in Jorba, L'Anoia, marking the tenth fatal victim in Catalan pools since the start of the bathing season.
The Inditex campus in Sant Adrià has significantly driven up office space rentals in Catalonia, with volumes nearing 200,000 square meters by June, a 29% increase.
Fires in the Sierra Oeste de Madrid have stabilized with no new flare-ups overnight. Meanwhile, Catalonia maintains the maximum alert level (Pla Alfa) for extreme fire risk in approximately fifty municipalities.
Catalonia experienced its warmest and one of its driest Julys since 1950, marked by three significant heat episodes, record-breaking torrid nights, and a widespread lack of rainfall, according to Meteocat.

Catalan leader Salvador Illa is looking to Singapore's housing model while prioritizing a new autonomous financing model for Catalonia, putting aside the transfer of income tax. He emphasized that excuses for inaction on financing are over for all parties involved.
Catalonia's August agenda is packed with diverse proposals, including open-air cinema, theater performances, concerts, exhibitions, and festivals across the region.
The Ombudsman of Catalonia (Síndica de Greuges) has launched an official inquiry to clarify the impact of PISA results in the region, requesting information on schools, students, exclusion causes, and supervision mechanisms.
Following the PISA fiasco, the OECD has urged the Catalan government to investigate the failure in its PISA results and adopt corrective measures. The organization confirmed it informed the ministry of the unprecedented data in March 2026, highlighting the need for action despite some educational advancements.
The onset of a long heatwave has brought new forest fires to Catalonia, Spain. The fires confined 3,600 residents for several hours in Baix Penedès and Canyelles, in Garraf.
The Mossos d'Esquadra, Catalonia's police force, have introduced a QR code and an anonymous email address to facilitate the reporting of cases of sexual and labor exploitation, emphasizing the importance of citizen collaboration.
The Spanish Treasury announced it will provide a record 185 billion euros in advance payments to autonomous communities, marking a 9% increase. Catalonia is projected to receive a new maximum of 35.560 billion euros in 2027, an 8% rise from 2026.
The High Court of Justice of Catalonia (TSJC) has mandated a school in Maresme to increase the number of subjects taught in Spanish, referencing a recent decision by the European Court of Human Rights.

Catalonia's regional government, the Generalitat, is accused of concealing for 15 months that it altered the sample for PISA tests, despite being alerted by the Ministry of Education, revealing a significant decline in its educational standards.
Indra has sealed a strategic alliance with Catalan company Bold Technology, an initiative that aligns with the Spanish multinational's commitment to consolidate Catalonia as a key industrial and technological hub in Southern Europe.
Renfe has removed Antonio Carmona, its long-standing spokesperson in Catalonia, citing the arrival of a new director for Rodalies and CEO of Rodalies de Catalunya as the reason for the decision.

A new financing model proposed by Sánchez is criticized for leaving eleven autonomous communities underfunded, while disproportionately benefiting Catalonia and only the wealthiest regions, with Asturias and Extremadura facing losses.
A small and medium-sized enterprise from Catalonia has been named the best in Girona and has successfully expanded its operations to over 50 countries worldwide.
Spain's Popular Party (PP) is outlining its strategy for municipal elections, aiming to expand its influence beyond metropolitan Catalonia by linking support to participation in local governments.
Traveling with pets remains challenging due to restrictions, but an increasing number of pet-friendly establishments are available in Catalan cities and towns for family holidays.
The Generalitat of Catalonia has signed an agreement with Vietnam to foster the expansion of startups and enhance business relations, positioning the Asian country as a strategic partner.

The PSC government in Catalonia has reached an agreement with Comuns on a new law that will allow the conversion of offices, ground floors, hotels, and parking lots into protected housing, also permitting a 20% increase in building height.
Catalonia has been excluded from the PISA tests after the Generalitat detected that disabled students, who should have participated, were eliminated, rendering the sample unrepresentative.
A political commentary suggests that the recurring strategy of 'punishing' Catalonia is exacerbating resentment over what is seen as unjust treatment.
A criminal organization that supplied over 300 kilograms of cocaine to Mallorca from Catalonia, using vehicles transported by boat, has been dismantled.
Xavier Vilajoana of the Association of Promoters of Catalonia (APCE) warns that a proposed law prohibiting housing acquisition includes restrictions on operations related to promotion, rehabilitation, and urban regeneration, stating that the problem is a lack of housing, not who buys it.
An article from La Vanguardia reflects on the recurring theme that Catalonia consistently faces disadvantages or losses in political outcomes. This piece appears to be a general commentary on the region's political situation rather than a report on a specific event.
According to the Observatori de les Energies Renovables, Catalonia's renewable energy coverage has fallen to 15.3% in 2025, with new self-consumption projects dropping by 31% following the end of Next Generation aid and the normalization of energy prices.
The article discusses Catalonia's ongoing reliance on nuclear power, indicating that the region still requires it for its energy needs.
An expert highlights the worrying trend of heat records and the disappearance of over 40% of mountain springs in Catalonia, indicating increasing pressure on nature from extreme weather events.
A new series of short documentaries on CaixaForum+ delves into the enigmas hidden within the paintings housed at the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC).
The PP party has designated its mayoral candidates for the Catalan capitals, setting the goal of doubling the number of councilors in Catalonia. Sirera, Palau, and Martorell will repeat their candidacies in Barcelona, Lleida, and Tarragona, respectively, while Daniel Ruiz will debut in Girona.
Criminality in Catalonia has decreased by 7.6%, with incidents involving weapons falling by 5.4%, prompting the Mossos d'Esquadra to allocate more resources to combat drug trafficking.
A report reveals the most popular baby names in Catalonia for 2025, with Júlia, Sofia, Biel, and Nil topping the list for newborns.
The construction of new and rehabilitated housing in Barcelona has seen a significant 40% decline, while overall housing permits across Catalonia fell by nearly 3% in the first half of the year.
The College of Architects is calling for urgent reform of the processing system in Catalonia, as municipal collapse and delays of over a year for licenses are severely hindering housing development in most major municipalities.
Reports indicate a rise in tick populations in Catalonia, Spain, prompting public health advice on protection and treatment for bites.
A gas leak has forced the interruption of the Rodalies R1 train service between Arenys and Canet de Mar in Catalonia, with emergency services establishing a security perimeter and advising nearby residents and a campsite to confine themselves.

The actual cost of absenteeism in Spain is estimated to be four times higher than official figures, ranging between 60,000 and 129,000 million euros, with Catalonia incurring the highest expenses.
Live music revenue in Catalonia has quadrupled over the past 25 years, driven by a boom in festivals, while concert halls and the recording industry have seen declines.
An article from La Vanguardia discusses the necessity for Catalonia to develop a more efficient and responsive administrative system.
Catalonia is facing another day of simultaneous wildfires, with significant blazes reported in Aiguamúrcia and Lladurs. The Lladurs fire, affecting a difficult-to-access area, has been surrounded by firefighters, reducing its spread potential.
Madrid's president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, has denounced Pedro Sánchez's proposal for regional financing, labeling it 'illegal and unjust' and accusing it of being designed to treat Catalonia as a nation and buy political will.
The Generalitat of Catalonia has launched a new guide aimed at making judicial processes more humane and child-friendly for minors involved in family court hearings.

Octogenarian Mari, a resident of Catalonia, recounts her emotional return home to Lubrín for vacation, only to be evacuated by the Civil Guard and forced to sleep in a funeral home, expressing deep sorrow for her town.
Vocational training (FP) is presented as the solution to the shortage of specialized technicians needed for the intense modernization phase of Catalonia's extensive elevator park, the largest in Spain.
The Spanish Treasury has sent the new financing system proposal to the autonomous communities, opening it up for negotiation. The model, previously agreed upon with ERC, is expected to be approved with the votes of the Government and Catalonia.
In Catalonia, 6% of purchased homes are resold within two years, with the Notarial College identifying approximately 6,000 annual operations indicative of speculative real estate practices.

Andalusia, Catalonia, and Castilla-La Mancha in Spain have established specialized units. These units use data-driven models, based on decades of incidents, to predict wildfire behavior and improve response strategies.
Edicions 62 has announced a new publication titled 'Història de les dones' (History of Women), set to be released in October, which will focus on Catalonia and apply a gender perspective with contributions from Montserrat Duch and 70 other authors.
Firefighters in Catalonia, Spain, have reported that all wildfires are now stabilized, though they anticipate a 'difficult' day ahead with several crews remaining on site for control.
Forest fires continue to rage in Catalonia, reaching the Barcelona metropolitan area and forcing new confinements in several Catalan regions.

Approximately 6,000 people have been confined due to a high-intensity fire in Gavà, Barcelona, amidst a day of multiple simultaneous fires across Catalonia, including in Pla de Manlleu and Navarcles.
A report presented by the Sindicatura de Greuges indicates that the underfunding of school places in Catalonia continues, despite an increase in education spending, with a deficit estimated at 944 million euros.
Firefighters in Catalonia are simultaneously confronting seven significant wildfires, with the Vallès fire remaining active while the advance of the Anoia fire has been halted.
Junts and PP plan to take the proposed law to ban speculative housing purchases, put forward by the 'comunes', to the Council of Statutory Guarantees. The post-convergent party will halt its processing, criticizing the attempt to approve it via a single reading, which prevents professional bodies and experts from testifying.
This article presents a survey asking public opinion on the potential reintroduction of tolls on high-capacity roads in Catalonia. The Generalitat is considering implementing a vignette system or license plate control within two to three years.