Barcelona is the starting point for a new transport measure that could affect youth groups across Catalonia, as the Catalan government plans to introduce the T-Lleure card for educational leisure organisations.
According to the government statement, the future pass would let groups such as caus, esplais and casals use the public transport network, including the Barcelona metro, bus services and Rodalies regional trains. Officials said transport costs are a major expense when organising activities outside municipal areas, especially in rural zones.
The measure is part of a wider push by Salvador Illa's executive to reduce bureaucracy. The government says it wants to simplify subsidy procedures, align calls for proposals across administrations and use digital tools to ease the burden on volunteers.
On 26 May, the government approved the Strategy for the Recognition of Associative, Voluntary, and Community-Based Educational Leisure in Catalonia 2026-2030. It was developed with the National Youth Council of Catalonia, municipal bodies and relevant ministries. The government says this is the first full roadmap in Catalonia to recognise the educational work of esplais, Scout groups and youth clubs, which have a history of more than 125 years.
The plan also includes a new Youth Associative Resource Centre, known as CRAJ, which will provide technical support to federations and organisations in the sector. The strategy is built around seven pillars, including dialogue with administrations, the sustainability of natural and public spaces, the Catalan language, funding, youth leadership and knowledge-sharing. The government says the aim is to make sure no child or young person is excluded from leisure activities for economic, social, cultural or territorial reasons.
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