When Good Intentions Aren't Good Enough?

Forum Barcelona 2004, an upcoming sustainable development themed-event, is faced with criticism from local groups who contend that it does not practice what is preaches.

1 minute read

May 15, 2004, 7:00 AM PDT

By Connie Chung

Forum Barcelona 2004 is "a gleaming seaside complex built for 141 days of debates and performances that will aim to promote peace, sustainable development and cultural diversity....Yet for all the good intentions and fine infrastructure, the Forum has not won over all Barcelona's hearts." Over a hundred neighborhood groups have voiced opposition to the Forum, alleging that the event is really just a '"massive real estate operation."' Critics contend that "the development would draw yet more tourists to Barcelona but would bring few benefits for residents of the nearby neighborhoods." However, the Forum's spokesperson adds "that far from hiding the urban planning dimension of the Forum, organizers are open about that agenda. 'Barcelona is a city that has been looking for excuses to redevelop for about 100 years,' he says."

Thanks to Connie Chung

FULL STORY: Want to Put the World to Rights? Visit Barcelona

Wednesday, May 12, 2004 in Reuters

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