ERC (Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya)

Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC) is a political party in Catalonia that advocates for the region's independence from Spain. Founded in 1931, ERC supports progressive social policies, bilingualism, and greater regional autonomy. It promotes the idea that Catalonia should have the right to decide its political future through democratic means, including a referendum. The party has played a key role in Catalan politics, especially in efforts to establish independence, though its stance often balances regional interests with broader social and economic considerations within Spain.