An air of unrest descended in the semi-autonomous region of Catalonia, north-eastern Spain, causing more than 100 individuals to be detained by the police. This outbreak of chaos was instigated by the arrest of separatist leaders, triggering a chain reaction throughout Catalonia. This territory, situated on the Iberian Peninsula, has a unique and rich history that spans almost a millennium. Apart from having its own language, parliament, flag, and anthem, Catalonia’s cultural and political distinctiveness has been a subject of fierce debate over centuries.
Background: Catalonia and its Struggle for Autonomy
Before the Spanish Civil War broke out between 1936-1939, Catalonia was bestowed with substantial autonomy. However, this liberty was brutally suppressed under General Francisco Franco’s regime. Subsequent to the establishment of the military government in 1939 and until 1975, Catalan culture underwent severe oppression. Traditions and symbols embodying Catalan identity, including ‘castells’ (human towers), were banned. Compulsorily, parents had to ascribe Spanish names to their offspring.
The arbitrary restrictions were lifted upon Franco’s death, and Catalonia was given autonomous status under the 1978 constitution. As part of a new, democratic Spain, the region flourished. In recognition of its intrinsic characteristics, a 2006 statute augmented its inherent powers, enhancing Catalonia’s fiscal authority and acknowledging it as a “nation”. However, much of this progress was overturned by Spain’s Constitutional Court in 2010.
Demand for Independence: Catalonia’s Economic Powerhouse
Over the years, Catalonia emerged as Spain’s industrial nucleus, initially owing to its maritime prowess and trade, particularly in textiles. Recently, finance, services, and hi-tech companies have taken the lead, transforming Catalonia into one of Spain’s wealthiest regions. As per records, the region contributes approximately 25.6% towards exports, 19% to GDP, and 20.7% to foreign investment.
Catalan nationalists have been indignant about their territory contributing disproportionately high to poorer Spanish regions since taxes are administered by Madrid. Furthermore, they argue that the changes to their autonomy in 2010 by Spain marred the Catalan identity.
| Export Contribution | GDP Contribution | Foreign Investment Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 25.6% | 19% | 20.7% |
The Catalonian Referendum of 2017: The Eyeball of Controversy
In October 2017, a referendum, which turned out to be contentious, was held. A staggering 90% of Catalonians voted for independence; however, only 43% of the electorate participated. Accusations were rife that the Spanish National Police forcefully prevented citizens from voting, resulting in rampant violence. Nonetheless, Spain’s central government declared the referendum illegal due to the reported widescale violence. This controversial referendum plunged Spain into its gravest constitutional crisis.
