Course: Metropolis and economic development: Strategies for the 21st century

Metropolitan areas and regions have become the main economic drivers of the 21st century. While they often vary in physical size and population density, they share a common feature: they concentrate productive activity, talent, innovation, and opportunities. At the same time, they must confront complex challenges such as social and territorial inequalities, access to housing, sustainable mobility, digitalization, and climate change adaptation. In this context, it is essential to understand how economic development strategies are currently designed and implemented in ways that take territorial dynamics into account and aim to be more inclusive and sustainable.

This course offers an in-depth analysis of the concepts, strategies, and tools used for economic development in metropolitan settings, with a special focus on the Barcelona area. Through practical case studies, expert talks, and debates, the course will explore governance models, planning instruments, and public policies that aim to link economic growth with social and territorial cohesion. The presentation of cases from Spanish and European cities will help identify best practices, compare development models, and understand how strategies are adapted to the institutional, territorial, and economic context of each metropolitan area. Ultimately, this course aims to be a space for reflection and shared learning on how to build more prosperous, resilient, and cohesive metropolitan areas, drawing from Barcelona's experience and enriched by the diversity of European models.

Organized by: PEMB