Despite the inevitable transition costs for both sides, there may also be some benefits to a split.
Spanish National Police block people trying to reach a polling station in Barcelona, Spain, on Oct. 1. Catalan leaders accused Spanish police of brutality and repression.
AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)
The European Union is quick to condemn countries like Venezuela and Turkey when they engage in anti-democratic tactics. So why is it so silent on Spain’s treatment of the Catalan?
The potential for more violence is clear unless the two sides can be brought to the negotiating table as soon as possible.
People raise hands during a protest as Catalan regional police officers stand guard outside the
National Police station in Barcelona.
Reuters/Yves Herman
Both regions have held independence referendums that have returned overwhelming “yes” votes. But without international support, the road ahead will be a tough one.
On Sunday, more than 2 million Catalans voted in a referendum on the question: Should Catalonia become an independent state? The vote was a milestone in the century-long struggle for self-determination…
Catalans have voted for independence in a referendum that holds no official sway but has enormous significance. Now Catalonia needs to decide where to turn next. The referendum, held on November 9, was…
The sense of a distinct identity is what drives Catalans to continue pushing for independence despite the obstacles.
Aleksandra Hadzelek
On the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, another milestone in European history took place: the Catalan vote on independence. Downgraded from an official referendum – which would be illegal…
Independence supporters in Bilbao form a ‘V’ for victory in a November 9 referendum.
EPA/Alfredo Adlia
For three years in a row, Catalans have taken to the streets on September 11, Catalonia’s national day (the Diada). The 2012 rally for independence gathered an estimated 1.5 million people in Barcelona…