What Was the Mediterranean Economic and Social Forum?
The Mediterranean Economic and Social Forum is a meeting where leaders, experts, and thinkers come together to talk about the big challenges facing the countries around the Mediterranean Sea. The third edition took place over three days in June 2026, with events in Barcelona and a kickoff day at the Joan Miró Foundation.
Key Moments from the Forum
Opening Words and Closing Remarks
Aitor Moll, an advisor to Prensa Ibérica, wrapped up the forum by saying they wanted to keep looking for realistic and ambitious answers to tough problems. He thanked everyone who took part and stressed that the dialogue should continue beyond the event itself.
Notable Speakers
- King Felipe VI highlighted that cooperation, research, and honest dialogue bring only good outcomes.
- Salvador Illa, president of the Generalitat, shared his vision for the region.
- Jordi Hereu, Minister of Industry and Tourism, talked about economic opportunities.
- José Manuel Albares, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, emphasized the importance of foreign policy.
- Jaume Duch Guillot, the Generalitat’s Minister of European Union and Foreign Action, called the Mediterranean both complex and full of chances.
- Former EU Vice‑President Josep Borrell warned that many Spaniards still see the Mediterranean as a threat because of immigration.
- Journalist Anne Applebaum discussed how the United States is moving toward a more autocratic direction.
Why Geopolitics Took Center Stage
This year’s forum put a strong focus on geopolitics—the way politics and geography interact. Speakers pointed out that the Mediterranean is a hotspot where different cultures, economies, and security issues meet. Understanding these connections helps countries work together on migration, trade, and environmental protection.
Looking Forward: The Next Stop
After hosting the forum in Valencia (2024) and Málaga (2025), Barcelona handed over the baton to Palma de Mallorca. Mayor Jaume Collboni announced that the fourth edition will take place there next year. While the location will change, the goal stays the same: keep the conversation going about shared challenges across the Mediterranean arc.
Conclusion
Aitor Moll reminded everyone that the forum’s end is not a finish line but a starting point. The ideas exchanged over those three days should spark new projects, partnerships, and solutions that benefit all Mediterranean communities. As the forum moves to Palma de Mallorca, the spirit of cooperation and ambitious thinking will continue to grow.
Images Credit: www.diariodeibiza.es