Catalan Municipalities Impede Registration Process, Social Groups Report

Social entities in Catalonia report that the municipal registration process is being obstructed or faces significant effectiveness difficulties in over half of the region's large cities. A study by the Catalan Entities for Social Action (ECAS), conducted with Ksnet, identified problems in the registration procedures in 40 out of the 60 most populated municipalities.

Furthermore, 29 municipalities, including 10 in the Barcelona Metropolitan Area, are reportedly not registering all individuals who apply. Carlos Macías, director of ECAS, stated that these obstacles are not isolated incidents but indicate a broader administrative issue. The study, which gathered qualitative input from 54 social entities and support groups, aims to provide an updated overview of the registration process in Catalonia, particularly for individuals in vulnerable situations.

The report highlights specific hurdles faced by people experiencing severe residential exclusion. Approximately 80% of the recorded cases involve migrants, and 70% concern individuals in irregular administrative situations. Macías emphasized that registration is a legal obligation, not a discretionary political choice, and understanding the reality is crucial for guaranteeing rights and enabling effective public administration planning.

Key problems identified include differential treatment based on the type of residence or accommodation, with difficulties often linked to a person's origin, income level, or housing status. The study also noted issues with accessing and affording appointments in some municipalities, as well as demands for additional documentation not required by law. These challenges are present across municipalities of varying political governance, affecting approximately 62% of Catalonia's population.