Spanish troops mass on Catalunya’s borders…

Well,perhaps not quite, although as El Economista reports:

(The) Spanish Military Association (SMA) has warned Monday that those who cooperate or allow “fracture” of Spain should “respond with all the utmost rigor” in the courts in the field of military courts by the “serious charge high treason.

(Google translate gives the gist)
Meanwhile in the real world Artur knows what he’s doing methinks. The FT (subscription needed but it’s free to subscribe) chronicles the events of the last few weeks. Catalan with Spain’s future in his hands – (The FT doesn’t like cutting and pasting but welcomes you to read it yourselves).
The Economist asks:
Europe’s next independent state?

THE banner in Barcelona’s central Placa de Catalunya square reads: “Catalonia, next independent state in Europe”. After a huge, peaceful march with flags and banners through the city on September 11th brought together an estimated 8% of the region’s 7.5m population, a once-exotic idea has suddenly come to life.

A demonstration with 8% of the population for “Independencia” is pretty impressive for Catalunya and has pushed Artur Mas’s Convergència i Unió into a Catalan election with a promise of an independence referendum.
The Independent thinks that Spain should be nervous:

(President) Rajoy should perhaps take heed more than ever. The prospect of Catalan independence should bring him out in a cold sweat. To lose such a massive chunk of the economy and still be left with the worst performing regions in the South would spell tragedy.
It could also set a dangerous precedent elsewhere in Europe where austerity at home coupled with contributions to bailouts and stability funds abroad are sources of rising nationalism too.
With its own unity, and that of Europe in mind, Madrid needs to readdress its relationship with the most treasured jewel in its once glorious crown. There needs to be sensible compromise with the Catalans, or Spain faces the reality of a disastrous split which is certain to draw the attention of an already precariously united Europe.

The Catalan election is on November 25…exciting times.

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