Spain: Protests again Catalan pro-independence activists likely nationwide into at least late November

Protests to denounce a proposed amnesty for organizers of the 2017 Catalonian Independence Referendum are likely across Spain through at least Nov. 23. For several months, demonstrators have gathered in cities nationwide to protest negotiations between the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) and the Catalonian Junts party concerning a possible amnesty agreement for referendum organizers. Anti-amnesty activists demonstrated at the PSOE headquarters in Madrid Nov. 7, as well as at PSOE offices nationwide on Nov. 6; law enforcement officers forcibly dispersed demonstrators during the Madrid rally. The largest such demonstration, an Oct. 8 gathering in Barcelona, drew an estimated 50,000 participants. Protests will likely intensify as the Nov. 22 deadline for PSOE and Junts to reach an agreement to form a governing coalition approaches. Large gatherings could continue beyond that date if the two parties arrive at a deal to grant the amnesty in question.

Heightened security, as well as localized transport and disruptions, are likely near any demonstrations that occur. Clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement officers cannot be ruled out.