Spain: Protests expected throughout Catalonia Sep. 29 /update 2

Event

Catalonia’s relationship with the central government has continued to deteriorate ahead of the independence referendum, scheduled for Sunday, October 1. Despite ongoing efforts by Madrid to block the vote, Catalonia officials are set to explain the electoral process of the referendum on Friday, September 29, at midday (local time). Various protests and rallies are expected throughout Catalonia on Friday, including in Barcelona.

On September 28, the central government seized more than six million ballots and envelopes and 100 ballot boxes in the Catalan town of Igualada. On the same day, between 16,000 and 80,000 university and high school students gathered in the center of Barcelona to march in favour of the vote, and thousands more rallied elsewhere in Catalonia. University students across the region are expected to strike throughout Friday. Amid ongoing escalating tensions, the mayor of Barcelona has called on the European Commission to mediate the conflict.

Meanwhile, the referendum has become a security conundrum. On September 26, the Mossos d’Esquadra Catalan regional police, which has officially been placed under Madrid’s authority, was ordered to seal off and guard all polling stations. However, anticipating fierce resistance with protestors, Mossos representatives have stated their priority remains to maintain public order, rather than to prevent the vote. According to media reports, some 10,000 policemen and National Guard soldiers are to be deployed in the region for the ballot.

As a reminder, a number of pro-independence groups will hold a final rally in Barcelona on Saturday, September 30. Supporters are expected to gather at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc at 20:00 (local time). Thousands are expected to participate in the demonstration. Another major demonstration in the Basque city of Bilbao is also set to take place on Saturday in solidarity with the Catalan people.

Context

The Catalan bid for independence has become Spain’s worst constitutional crisis in 40 years and has seemingly reached a point of no return. Despite Madrid’s repeated attempts to block the vote, through judicial and logistical means, Catalan officials insist the vote will take place, expecting an 80 percent voter turnout.

According to recent polls, although less than half of the Catalan population is in favor of independence, the large majority wants the right to vote.

Advice

Individuals in Spain, particularly in Catalonia, are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.