“Loneliness of Catalonia”: Separatism in Catalan-speaking Regions in Spain in 21st Century

Abstract

The article analyzes the historical, ethno-social, economic, and political reasons for the formation of separatist tendencies in regions where the Catalan language is spoken in Spain: Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands. It is commonly believed that these regions share many similarities, yet in practice only Catalonia seeks independence. The study investigates why separatist tendencies are prominently displayed in only one of the Catalan-speaking regions. The research is based on historical facts, scholarly works dedicated to separatism in Catalan-speaking regions, statistical data on the economies of the regions and election results, and news reports. The conclusion drawn from the study is that the Catalan-speaking regions have many distinct characteristics: they have different histories tied to their past status as regions; different self-perceptions within Spain and globally, varying economic conditions, and consequently different political tendencies. It is proven that due to historical, ethno-social, economic, and political reasons, Valencia and the Balearic Islands have no intention of separating from Spain, leaving Catalonia alone in its quest for independence.