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Topic History of: Catalonia Protests Max. showing the last 5 posts - (Last post first)
Author
Message
Barney
Yes. Apparently the 2017 Catalan referendum was unauthorised by the Spanish government - and was deemed, by the courts, to be illegal and unconstitutional.
Jo
Not surprised people are angry. These jail sentences seem excessive.
Barney
Just back from a week in Barcelona - where 525,000 people marched and attended rallies on Friday, having come to the city from the surrounding area.
Sadly, some of these rallies descended into riots - and dozens were injured, with cars set alight.
Fireworks and molotov cocktails were thrown at police - 200 of whom were injured, as well as some protesters.
Tourist attractions were closed and several lucrative cruise liners declined to visit the port.
Catalans feel strongly about independence - and it seems to me that this problem isn't going anywhere soon.
Barney
Ongoing now (tonight) largely in Barcelona - the region's biggest city; it's turned to violence and sabotage in recent days.
A recent referendum showed that over 92% of Catalans want independence for Spain's most prosperous part. The protagonists support that desire.
20% of Spain's GDP is generated from Catalonia - larger than most EU countries. For example, its cruise ship port is Europe's largest.
Unlike other Olympic host cities (Sydney, Athens etc.) - their excellent 1992 Games completely revitalised the city and surroundings.
Catalonia could easily survive alone - and may be the next 'brexit/spexit'...