Comunicación interna y bienestar emocional en el ayuntamiento de Barcelona

In a global context characterized by uncertainty, complexity, and declining institutional trust, internal communication (IC) has assumed a strategic role in public organizations as a mechanism for cohesion, motivation, and emotional support. This study analyzes the case of Barcelona City Council to explore the relationship between IC channels and emotional wellbeing, assess the impact of different types of content (corporate, professional, and coexistence), and determine the association between predominant communication models and staff emotional experiences. We conducted an online survey (n=1057), held interviews in the Internal Communication Department, and organized a discussion group with communication managers. The results show significant associations between certain communication practices and higher levels of emotional wellbeing. Content focused on coexistence and the persuasive model emerge as factors linked to more positive emotional experiences. However, their effect is mediated by structural, cultural, and relational factors that extend beyond the scope of communication.