Catalonia implements VR for prisoner rehabilitation and AI for housing tracking

The Generalitat de Catalunya has implemented immersive virtual reality (RVI) technology as a rehabilitation tool for prisoners convicted of gender-based violence. Currently used in nearly all standard penitentiary centers in Catalonia, the program involves approximately 1,400 inmates. The technology utilizes 'embodiment' techniques, allowing offenders to experience situations from the perspective of the victim to foster empathy and accountability.

Separately, the Generalitat is collaborating with local municipalities to develop an artificial intelligence system to better identify empty housing in Catalonia. This initiative aims to address difficulties in quantifying vacant properties, which include second homes, tourist rentals, and seasonal accommodations. In Tarragona, for instance, data indicates that 15.85% of housing is unoccupied for most of the year, though distinguishing between truly vacant homes and those used for economic activities remains a challenge.