Catalan independence movement

The Catalan Independence Movement is a political and social effort aimed at creating an independent state for Catalonia, a region in northeastern Spain with its own distinct language, culture, and identity. Many Catalans believe they should have the right to self-determination due to their unique history and socio-economic differences from the rest of Spain. Tensions peaked with a controversial independence referendum in 2017, which the Spanish government deemed illegal. The movement has sparked debates over national identity, civil rights, and regional autonomy within Spain and the European Union, highlighting the complexities of independence and governance.