In the industrial zone of Badalona, on the outskirts of Barcelona, an unusual enclave has emerged. Here, inside the walls of a former educational building, more than four hundred people from various African countries have been living for a second year. Despite constant pressure from the municipality, this place has become the only refuge for many.
The building was once abandoned, but after a series of tragic events and fires in nearby warehouses, those left homeless started coming here. Over time, the place turned into a mini-city: makeshift rooms appeared, with electricity, water, and even a couple of small bars where neighbors gather. There’s a unique atmosphere inside—there are rules, representatives, and in the yard you’ll meet not only men, but also women, children, and even a pregnant goat.
Life here is far from easy. Most residents work in low-paid jobs, some legally, others off the books. Finding housing is a real struggle: racial discrimination and lack of documents prevent them from renting even the simplest room. The area where the settlement is located is considered one of the most disadvantaged in the city, and there are simply no shelters for the homeless in Badalona.
Recently, the Catalonian court upheld the city hall’s decision on eviction. The city authorities, led by Xavier García Albiol, have no intention of making concessions. There are plans to turn the former institute into a police station for the city and regional police. Meanwhile, the migrants themselves have filed a complaint against the mayor, believing that his statements unfairly link them to crime. They hope to initiate negotiations and receive alternative housing, but so far the authorities have not responded.
The police, incidentally, have long been familiar with the residents of B9: sometimes helping to maintain order, sometimes simply observing. Within the community, there are enough internal issues—from domestic conflicts to people with mental health problems. Yet despite all the difficulties, the settlement continues to grow. Some who have managed to find housing return here to support their neighbors.
As the cold weather approaches, the fear of eviction only intensifies. People worry they will end up on the street with no support whatsoever. For many, B9 is not just a temporary shelter, but their only chance to survive in Spain. For now, they stick together and are not planning to give up.
