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Catalonia’s Reckless Independence Bid

11 commentaries

The Catalan independence referendum was bold but impetuous, and the regional government now faces hostility from Spain and lacks support from any EU member state. Project Syndicate writers examine the implications for Spain, the EU, and other aspiring secessionists.

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  1. A Federal Spain in a Federal Europe
    Barcelona pro-unity protesters Borja Sanchez Trillo/Getty Images

    A Federal Spain in a Federal Europe

    Nov 2, 2017 Guy Verhofstadt sees only one realistic option for overcoming the crisis triggered by Catalonia's independence bid.

  2. The Sovereignty that Really Matters
    United States Supreme Court Hisham Ibrahim/Getty Images

    The Sovereignty that Really Matters

    Oct 20, 2017 Javier Solana calls for renewed efforts to reduce the preeminence of the nation-state.

  3. Europe’s Attackers From Within
    Protest against the arrest of two Catalan separatist leaders Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

    Europe’s Attackers From Within

    Oct 17, 2017 Joschka Fischer argues that a stable and intact Spain that includes Catalonia is essential to the EU's future.

  4. International Mediation is Not the Answer in Catalonia
    Spanish prime minister Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images

    International Mediation is Not the Answer in Catalonia

    Oct 12, 2017 Ana Palacio argues that external mediation of the crisis would undermine democracy and the rule of law – and not only in Spain.

  5. Why Catalonia’s Independence Bid Is Failing
    palacio76_David-Ramos_GettyImages-Carles-Puigdemont-PS David Ramos/Getty Images

    Why Catalonia’s Independence Bid Is Failing

    Oct 12, 2017 Shlomo Ben-Ami describes the insuperable obstacles that will stifle the regional government's drive for statehood.

  6. Europe’s Return to Crisis?
    The new headquarters of 'La Caixa - Caixabank' Jose Jordan/Getty Images

    Europe’s Return to Crisis?

    Oct 11, 2017 Daniel Gros considers what Spain's internal tumult says about the European Union's structure and prospects.

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