Putting Catalan Police Under Spanish Command Is a Bad Idea
Spanish control could make it harder for the troopers to keep a lid on passions in Catalonia.
Catalonia
Analysis and commentary about the independence crisis in Catalonia by Nick Ottens (based in Barcelona) and Ainslie Noble (an expert in Basque and Catalan identity issues).
Mixed Views from France on Catalan Referendum
Most French media call on Catalan and Spanish leaders to work out a compromise.
Catalan Referendum Animates Flemish, Leaves Dutch Cold
Flemish media are overwhelmingly sympathetic in their coverage. The Dutch show little interest.
Spanish Raids, Arrests Cross Red Line: Puigdemont
Spain raids Catalan government buildings and arrests top officials.
Partisan Divide in German Views on Catalan Referendum
The left sympathizes. Conservatives can’t look past the illegality of the planned vote.
Spanish Far Left Takes Rajoy to Task for Catalan “Repression”
Pablo Iglesias accuses the prime minister of making the Catalan problem worse.
Iraq Takes Similar Approach to Separatist Challenge as Spain
Both governments try to stop independence referendums by legal means. Neither appears to be succeeding.
The Arguments For and Against Catalan Independence
Arguments in favor are more emotional. Opponents point out concrete risks.
The Val d’Aran: The Minority Within the Catalan Minority
The Aranese, separated from the rest of Catalonia by the Pyrenees, are less supportive of independence.
Catalans Determined to Vote in Referendum Declared Illegal
Spain considers an independence referendum illegal, but Catalans are determined to vote anyway.
Don’t Force Catalans to Choose Between Independence and the Status Quo
There is room for compromise in the middle.
Time Is Running Out to Avoid a Constitutional Crisis in Spain
Mariano Rajoy vows to do “whatever is necessary” to stop Catalonia’s referendum.
Catalan Nationalists Are Not Campaigning “On Backs of the Dead”
Accusing nationalists of attempting to profit from a terrorist attack is not going to change minds.
Support for Catalan Independence Down, But It Could Still Happen
Only a minority would vote to break away from Spain, but they could prevail if opponents of independence stay home.
Barcelona and Madrid Are on a Collision Course
The unstoppable force of Catalan nationalism is about to meet the unmovable object of Spanish chauvinism.