Housing affordability is not confined to a handful of expensive cities; it is a global challenge that affects virtually all households. Currently, despite the law recognizing everyone’s right to an adequate standard of living, including adequate housing, 20 per cent of the world’s population is not adequately housed. In the context of the current pandemic, tackling urban inequalities and unaffordable housing remain urgent priorities. During this interview with Ada Colau, Mayor of Barcelona, we will hear about the experience and initiatives implemented in the city of Barcelona regarding policies and supportive frameworks that help improve housing and infrastructure conditions and can therefore help us bounce back from the devastating impacts of this global crisis.