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Catalan Flag Edited

Catalan self-determination illusory

Peter Divey
October 1, 2017

The appalling violence handed out by the authorities in Catalonia has shown to the world that in an EU-backed Spain at least the concept of self-determination is illusory, says Peter Divey.

The Spanish reaction to the Catalan independence vote has been catastrophic. It can only make separation increasingly likely. The EU wholeheartedly support Spain who have declared the vote illegal and therefore illegitimate. Apparently, it is unconstitutional. Democracy has been violently suppressed. The populous of Gibraltar are surely looking on closely. This is how Spain really feels about self-determination. Even Nicola Sturgeon has been "concerned" by the violence. Perhaps her beloved EU have made a mistake? Pensioners bleeding from beatings or rubber bullets is not good optics. There has been talk of civil war and the return of a Franco mentality. Pandora's box has been opened. Humpty Dumpty will not be easily put back together again.

What is odd is that polling consistently predicted an independence loss. Clearly no chances could be taken. But what will happen now? Mass arrests? I wonder how the EU will justify large numbers of "political" prisoners. When democracy is forbidden more extreme measures are inevitable. Terror.  Spain and the EU are now inter-locked in this dance of suppression and abuse. It will not be a quiet ride. It is a clear advert for EU values. The world is now aware that self-determination is illusory in Spain who are fully supported by the EU. It is not that the wrong answer is ignored. From now on even the question will not be tolerated. Brexit anyone?

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Peter Divey's dormant interest in British and American politics has been reawakened by last year's Brexit referendum result and Trump's ascendency to the White House. In his spare time he enjoys playing chess and has a growing collection of vintage wrist watches.
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