The aim of the new text is to improve the service for the public and strengthen security in Barcelona, responding to the evolution of the city, the increase in the complexity of criminal offences and new social demands. Once it is formalized, the new agreement will replace and repeal the framework agreement that has been in force since 2005.

Broader powers

One of the main new aspects of the text to be approved is the redistribution and broadening of responsibilities, particularly in terms of the role of the City Police in the criminal sphere.

• The City Police will take on a more active role in handling denouncements, which can be processed at the Citizen Help and Information Offices operated by the corps.
• The legal police tasks of the corps will also be broader, allowing for the investigation of certain minor crimes and lesser offences

Improved support for victims

The new agreement brings important changes in victim support, particularly in the sphere of gender violence and domestic violence.

• Broader responsibility for the Victim Support Service (SAV) operated by the City Police
• Participation in victim follow-up and, where determined, police protection measures.
• Integration of these services within specialised regional investigation units, strengthening coordination with the Mossos d’Esquadra corps

Exchange of information

The new agreement clearly and expressly regulates the exchange of information and mutual access to police systems and databases, with full legal guarantees on data protection. At the same time, it incorporates the shared use of technologies and video surveillance systems, giving the Mossos d’Esquadra access to the municipal system in cases of public security, emergencies or investigations.

The text approved also updates and consolidates bodies of coordination, collaboration and participation, such as the Local Security Board, the Urban Security Council and the prevention councils for the districts.