Catalonia may be generating wealth at record levels, but that prosperity is failing to reach much of its population, according to a new report from the Institut d’Estudis de l’Autogovern (IEA).
The findings, presented at the Palau Centelles in Barcelona, warn that despite strong growth, living standards are not keeping pace. The 2024 Self-Government Report highlighted key concerns in employment, housing and public services.
Key economic figures
• GDP growth: 3.6% in 2024 – higher than both the Spanish and European averages.
• Exports: Surpassed €100 billion for the first time.
• Unemployment: Youth jobless rate remains high at 21.6%.
• Fiscal deficit: Between 5.7% and 8.5% of Catalonia’s GDP.
The IEA points to the structural fiscal deficit as a critical issue, arguing that funds leaving Catalonia far exceed those returning, resulting in poor infrastructure and underfunded essential services.
At the report’s presentation, IEA director Xavier Arbós was joined by academics including Núria Bosch, professor of Public Finance at the University of Barcelona, and Juli Ponce, professor of Administrative Law. Bosch criticised the current financing model for leaving Catalonia below the national average in available resources despite its fiscal strength, while Ponce stressed that housing insecurity remains acute due to weak regulation on short-term lets.
The study also notes ongoing public dissatisfaction with the region’s level of self-government, with citizens demanding greater decision-making capacity for Catalonia.
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