Spain: Mass protests in Catalonia Sep. 20 in favor of referendum vote /update 5

Event

Around 40,000 people protested throughout Catalonia on Wednesday, September 20, against the detainment of at least 12 government officials and some 40 police raids conducted by the National Guard, including of six ministries.

According to local reports, the raids, which began around 08:00 (local time), lasted about 20 hours and were intended to seize all campaign and electoral equipment, sparking public outrage. Protestors gathered outside government buildings - notably the regional Economy Ministry - to prevent police officers from leaving the building, and vandalized at least four National Guard vehicles. A solidary protest was also held in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol square, where some 3000 people demonstrated.

Further demonstrations are likely in the coming days.

Context

Tensions between the central and regional government have remained high since Catalonia announced its intention to hold an independence referendum on Sunday, October 1. Despite logistical and judicial barriers, Catalan leaders continue to affirm that the referendum will take place as planned. The Catalan government has accused the central Spanish government of violating democratic principles, resorting to totalitarian measures, and suspending the region’s autonomy.

The referendum has been officially suspended by the Spanish Constitutional Court and the state prosecutor has launched a criminal probe against some 700 Catalan mayors for pledging to allow the referendum vote to take place. Spanish authorities also seized control of Catalonia’s finances and confiscated thousands of census cards and 45,000 notifications for Catalans selected to staff polling stations by raiding printing companies.

Leave for all members of the national police and the National Guard has been suspended until October 5.

Advice

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