Catalonia, Scotland and the EU:: Visions of Independence and Integration

The electoral success of secessionist parties in Catalonia and Scotland, together with Brexit and the support for Eurosceptic parties in many EU member states, has prompted a rethink of many taken-for-granted notions about politics in Spain, the UK, and the EU. This short volume aims to contribute to debates on and advance knowledge of visions of independence and integration, how they interrelate in Europes emergent political order, and what they entail for European integration and democracy in the EU.

Format: Hardback
Length: 100 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The recent electoral successes of secessionist parties in Catalonia and Scotland, coupled with Brexit and the surge of Eurosceptic parties across numerous EU member states, have sparked a significant reevaluation of prevailing notions about politics in Spain, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. These developments have challenged the assumption that secessionist movements are inherently anti-EU and have prompted a deeper exploration of the complex interplay between independence, EU membership, and the broader political landscape.

Secessionist parties in Catalonia and Scotland often juxtapose demands for independence with support for the EU. However, the pursuit of independence for Catalonia may lead to its loss of EU membership. In the UK, Scotland voted to remain in the EU, yet it was compelled to leave the Union alongside the rest of the country following Brexit. This has raised crucial questions about the impact of Brexit on Scottish independence claims.

To contribute to these ongoing debates and advance knowledge in this area, this short volume aims to compare Catalonia and Scotland, exploring their visions of independence and integration within the evolving political order of Europe. It seeks to examine how these visions interrelate, their implications for European integration, and their potential impact on democracy within the EU.

In Catalonia, the secessionist movement has gained significant momentum in recent years, driven by a desire for greater autonomy and a sense of cultural identity. While Catalonia has a strong economic and social presence within Spain, there are concerns that its pursuit of independence could lead to economic and political instability within the country. On the other hand, Scotland, which held a referendum on independence in 2014, voted overwhelmingly to remain in the UK. However, the aftermath of Brexit has reignited debates about Scottish sovereignty and the country's place within the EU.

One key aspect to consider is the potential impact of Brexit on the EU's internal dynamics. The UK's departure from the EU has created uncertainty and division within the Union, with some member states advocating for a more Eurosceptic approach and others pushing for closer integration. This has raised questions about the future of the EU as a unified entity and the role of individual member states in shaping its direction.

In terms of Scottish independence, Brexit has had a mixed impact. While Scotland voted to remain in the EU, the country is now facing the challenges of leaving the Union alongside the rest of the UK. This has led to calls for a second independence referendum, with some arguing that the circumstances surrounding Brexit have changed the political landscape and warrant a reevaluation of Scotland's position within the UK.

However, others argue that Brexit has provided an opportunity for Scotland to reassert its independence and strengthen its position within the EU. They point to the potential for Scotland to negotiate a new relationship with the EU that emphasizes its distinct cultural and economic interests, as well as its commitment to European values and principles.

Overall, the electoral success of secessionist parties, together with Brexit and the support for Eurosceptic parties, has prompted a critical reexamination of the political landscape in Spain, the UK, and the EU. The comparison of Catalonia and Scotland offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between independence, EU membership, and the broader political order of Europe. By exploring these dynamics, this volume aims to contribute to ongoing debates and advance knowledge in this critical area.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367653439