The Catalan government has launched a formal review into potential legal breaches by digital platforms following violent disturbances in Barcelona on 24th October 2026. The incidents caused damage to public spaces and businesses, compromised public safety, and resulted in multiple injuries. Authorities allege that several digital platforms were used to organise, incite, and spread violent actions, as well as promote further unlawful gatherings. In response, the government has tasked the General Directorate of Police, supported by the Catalan Cybersecurity Agency, with preparing a technical report on how these platforms were used and whether their operators failed to meet legal obligations.

The Government's Legal Office has been instructed to assess possible legal and judicial measures against platforms and their responsible parties that neglected cooperation duties with public authorities. This includes failing to respond to official requests or assist in clarifying the events and preventing further public disorder. A permanent coordination framework has also been established between the Government Secretariat, the Legal Office, and the Department of Home Affairs and Public Security to manage follow-up actions.

The objective is to determine whether platforms fulfilled their cooperation duties under current legislation.

The move is grounded in Catalonia’s autonomy over public security under Article 164 of its Statute of Autonomy, alongside EU and national laws. The 2022 EU Digital Services Regulation imposes due diligence, risk management, and cooperation requirements on digital intermediaries, particularly regarding illegal content and threats to public security. Spain’s 2002 Information Society Services Law also mandates cooperation with authorities to protect public order and support criminal investigations. All actions will respect constitutional rights to freedom of expression, information, assembly, and demonstration, provided they do not involve incitement to violence or the organisation of criminal acts.

Police and Judicial Actions Already Taken

Mossos d'Esquadra, Catalonia’s regional police, have already carried out investigative and preventive operations linked to the October 24th unrest. These efforts have led to the identification and judicial referral of individuals suspected of orchestrating the events. In coordination with Spain’s Interior Ministry via the Centre for Intelligence against Terrorism and Organised Crime (CITCO), authorities have also shut down specific messaging groups used to mobilise further riots. The government reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing collaboration between Mossos d'Esquadra, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and national security forces on matters beyond regional jurisdiction.

Sources: Govern de Catalunya.