This year, the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona became a focal point due to the participation of both Israeli and Palestinian companies. For Spain, the event holds significance not only from an economic perspective but also as a reflection of the country’s stance toward international conflicts and diplomatic challenges. The organizers’ decision not to exclude Israeli firms, despite the official break in relations between Barcelona’s city council and Israel, has sparked discussion among residents and experts.
The exhibition organizers confirmed that more than 30 Israeli companies will participate in MWC 2026, despite calls for a boycott and political disagreements. For the first time, 11 Palestinian tech firms will also be represented at the event, giving it particular resonance. According to El Pais, this decision has drawn a mixed response from exhibition staff and social organizations who believe the presence of Israeli stands contradicts the decisions of local authorities.
Politics and business
The situation around MWC escalated after Israel’s communications minister called for a boycott last year. The call was prompted by statements from the Spanish government about imposing sanctions against Israel amid events in Gaza. Nevertheless, Israeli companies did not withdraw and are preparing their stands in Pavilion Five under the new Israel Export Institute brand. Among the participants are firms specializing in cybersecurity and network technologies, such as DeepKeep and DriveNets.
Exhibition workers from various fields — from technical staff to support personnel — have expressed dissatisfaction over the official presence of Israeli companies. In their statement, they argue that changing the booth’s name does not alter its essence, as participation is still supported by the Israeli government. They also recalled decisions by the Catalan parliament and Barcelona city authorities, who had previously opposed official contacts with Israel.
Palestinian debut
For the first time in MWC’s history, Palestinian IT companies from Gaza and the West Bank will participate in the exhibition. Their presence is organized with support from the Palestinian Information Technology Association. Representatives of the Palestinian sector emphasize that despite restrictions related to conflict and occupation, they are ready to showcase innovative developments and build new business connections.
The presence of Palestinian firms became possible thanks to the efforts of international organizations and the support of GSMA — the global mobile operators association. This development is seen as an attempt to give both sides of the conflict a voice and to demonstrate opportunities for technological cooperation even amid political tensions.
Public reaction
The decision to admit Israeli and Palestinian companies has sparked a wave of discussion among exhibition workers and public activists. Some link the participation of Israeli firms to human rights violations, pointing out the connection between the tech business and conflicts in the Middle East. At the same time, others believe that the exhibition should remain a platform for dialogue and exchange of experience, regardless of political disagreements.
MWC organizers emphasize that their goal is to bring together industry representatives from around the world and support innovation. According to El Pais, despite pressure and protests, the event will take place as usual, with Barcelona once again becoming the center of global attention in mobile technology.
In recent years, international exhibitions and forums have increasingly become arenas for political debate and expressions of civil positions. For example, in 2024, similar disputes arose at technology forums in Berlin and Paris, where the participation of companies from politically tense countries also sparked protests. In Spain, such conflicts around major events are not new, reflecting the growing role of civil society and the influence of international developments on the country’s domestic politics.
