Barcelona City Council Approves New Agreement Between Guardia Urbana and Mossos d’Esquadra
Barcelona, May 29 – The Barcelona City Council has approved the text of a new agreement between the Guardia Urbana and the Mossos d’Esquadra. This new accord updates the existing framework, in place since 2005, and aims to strengthen institutional, operational, and technological coordination between the two police forces. The primary objective is to enhance public service and reinforce security in Barcelona, responding to the city’s evolving needs, the increasing complexity of criminal phenomena, and new social demands. Once formalized, this agreement will supersede and repeal the current framework.
Expanded Competencies for Guardia Urbana
One of the most significant changes introduced by the newly approved text is the redistribution and expansion of competencies, particularly concerning the Guardia Urbana’s role in criminal matters. The Guardia Urbana will now play a more active role in receiving complaints, which can be processed at their citizen service offices (GUB). Furthermore, the judicial police functions of the Guardia Urbana will be expanded, allowing them to investigate certain minor and less serious crimes.
Improved Victim Support
The new agreement also introduces substantial changes to victim support services, with a particular focus on cases of gender-based violence and domestic violence. The competencies of the Guardia Urbana’s Victim Assistance Service (SAV) will be expanded. The Guardia Urbana will participate in victim follow-up and, when determined necessary, assume police protection measures. These services will be integrated into specialized regional investigation units, reinforcing coordination with the Mossos d’Esquadra.
Information Exchange and Shared Technologies
The new agreement clearly and explicitly regulates the exchange of information and mutual access to police systems and databases, ensuring all legal and data protection guarantees are met. Concurrently, it incorporates the shared use of technologies and video surveillance systems, allowing the Mossos d’Esquadra access to the municipal system in situations involving public security, emergencies, or investigations.
The approved text also updates and consolidates coordination, collaboration, and participation bodies, such as the Local Security Board, the Urban Security Council, and the district prevention councils.
The move is expected to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement in Barcelona, providing a more cohesive and responsive approach to public safety and victim support.
