Similarities and Differences Between Catalan, Italian Referendums
The biggest difference: former separatists in northern Italy no longer call for independence.
Southern Europe
Spain to Suspend Catalan Home Rule After Independence Vote
The unprecedented step follows an independence referendum in the region Spain considered illegal.
Italian Right Makes Pact for Prime Ministership
Leaders agree that whoever wins the most votes will become prime minister of a coalition government.
Italian Voting Reforms Could Have Little Impact on Balance Between Parties
The left, right and populist Five Star Movement would remain roughly equal in size.
Italian Lawmakers Back Electoral Reforms Which Hurt Populists
The new voting system could make it harder for the populist Five Star Movement to come to power.
Catalan Leader Steps Back from Brink, Satisfies No One
Separatists are disappointed Carles Puigdemont didn’t declare independence. Madrid remains on guard.
World Won’t Let Catalonia or Kurdistan Come Quietly onto the Map
Independence for Catalonia and Kurdistan would upend the regional order in Europe and the Middle East.
Will Catalonia Declare Independence from Spain?
There are reasons to doubt the Catalans will go that far, but the politics don’t favor pragmatists.
Independence Crisis in Catalonia
Spain revokes Catalonia’s self-government in the wake of a controversial independence referendum.
Catalans Vote for Independence in Controversial Referendum
Analysis and opinion about the controversial independence vote in Catalonia.
A Failure of Leadership in Spain
Mariano Rajoy should never have let the Catalan independence crisis come this far.
Catalonia Unlikely to Declare Independence After Referendum
Even if a majority votes to break away, the regional government could balk at declaring independence unilaterally.
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.
Attitudes in Spain’s Basque Country Mirror Those in Catalonia
Fears of a domino effect are overblown. The Basques have adapted to Spanish rule.
Spanish Raids, Arrests Cross Red Line: Puigdemont
Spain raids Catalan government buildings and arrests top officials.