Barcelona to Host International Workshop on Cities and Migrant Protection in Times of Crisis

Barcelona, February 24, 2026 — On February 26 and 27, the Universitat Pompeu Fabra will host the international workshop “Cities on the Frontline: Protecting Migrants in Times of Transboundary Crises” at its Ciutadella Campus in Barcelona.

As pandemics, climate shocks, economic downturns, and geopolitical instability increasingly shape public life, cities have become central actors in responding to social vulnerabilities. Migrants — particularly those in irregular situations, precarious employment, or seeking asylum — are often among the most affected. The workshop will bring together scholars and practitioners to examine how local governments and stakeholders can strengthen protection mechanisms during times of crisis.

Drawing on the research projects MunMigra and GlocalMIC, funded by the State Research Agency, the event advances an emerging agenda on local governance, crisis management, and migrant protection. Discussions will address emergency responses, long-term resilience strategies, and cooperation across cities and governance levels.

Programme

February 26 & 27, 2006

Auditori Mercè Rodoreda

The workshop is convened by the researchers Juan Carlos Triviño and Juliana Fornasier from the UPF Department of Political and Social Sciences.