All over the world, secessionist movements are gaining momentum and gaining acceptance in the regions where they are erupting. This is largely a result of the individualism that is ruling our times. Ethnic and regional groups are demanding independence and self-rule fueled by a desire for distinct identity and more prosperity. Kurdistan witnessed a referendum last week, which sent shockwaves through the region and invited consequences, and now we are seeing the Catalonian clamour for secession from Spain gathering speed. In the same way as the Kurdistan referendum trigged a tremor across the Middle East, the Catalonian referendum sent ripples across Europe. The only difference is that Europe is no Middle East or Asia. This is a continent where ideals of freedom and democracy are deeply entrenched in popular culture, are considered sacrosanct and protected by constitutions.
The biggest fallout of the Catalonian referendum is that the issue has been thrust into the global limelight. It has sparked a constitutional crisis in Spain and has raised fears of unrest and prolonged political instability in its wealthiest region, deepening the divide between Madrid and Barcelona. At the same time, it’s a crisis that could have been prevented from worsening if both sides had acted with restraint. It’s unfortunate that almost 900 people were injured during the police crackdown on the referendum, which would only help to harden positions. Leaders in Catalonia must realise that independence cannot be achieved through a mere declaration after a vote, and leaders in Madrid must realise that the desire and calls for independence cannot be suppressed through force. The only option for both sides is to sit across the table for negotiations. The European commission reacted wisely when it said the referendum was “not legal” but at the same time called on the Spanish government to open dialogue, saying violence could not be an instrument in politics.
We cannot say that people in Catalonia have spoken up unanimously in favour of secession after the vote. According to officials, only 2.26 million Catalans – which is only 43 percent of the region’s 5.3 million eligible voters – took part in the referendum which was staged in defiance of the Spanish government and the constitutional court and the Catalan high court. The number of voters was less than half the population. It seems that the proponents of independence came out to vote while those who opposed it or didn’t have a view stayed back.
Europe as a continent is already populated with too many small countries and further splintering of states would only increase the number. Formation of new states doesn’t always lead to a better future and more prosperity, though it can be an expression of identity. European leaders too need to take a strong and clear stance on an issue that is getting out of control.
