The Mayor of Barcelona, Jaume Collboni, marked the commencement of the academic year at the Institut Barcelona d'Estudis Internacionals (IBEI) with an address centred around the theme "Barcelona: A Global City on a Human Scale."

In his keynote speech, Collboni highlighted the city's commitment to international studies and scientific collaboration. He underlined the fact that Barcelona is recognized as one of the best places to live and work in, not only internationally but also in terms of quality of life. He also emphasized the need for the city to be a welcoming and inclusive space for those who call it home, regardless of where they come from. Collboni also spoke on the city's diplomatic initiatives, including its efforts to promote itself as a global capital and cultural and scientific hub.

He emphasized the importance of peace, diplomacy, and mutual knowledge in promoting a common European project and constructive solutions to global challenges, particularly in the context of events in the Middle East and Europe. Collboni also emphasized the role of cities like Barcelona in driving progress and upholding human rights and freedoms, in the face of challenges such as climate change and inequality.

The Mayor of Barcelona concluded by praising Barcelona's "Global Ambition and Human Scale" and its role as an ideal location for education and research.

Laia de Nadal, Rector of the UPF, Javier Lafuente, Rector of the UAB, and Ernest Abadal, Vice-Rector assigned to the Rector and for Teaching and Research Staff of the UB, also welcomed all students to the new academic year 2023-2024.