Catalonia as a solution rather than a problem

The outcome of the process that Catalonia is immersed in will largely depend on how it is perceived by the world. This is one of the main challenges: to explain ourselves and be understood; to counter any biased views and present to the world the project that lies behind the massive Catalan rallies and the multi-party agreement for a vote on November 9.

In this regard, it must be said that the example of Scotland's referendum of September 18, the result of an exemplary agreement between London and Edinburgh, helps to frame the debate correctly; that is, within the realm of democracy and basic rights. The New York Times editorial of last week, praising the civilised European methods (in contrast with those of Putin in the Ukraine) and admitting that the EU's very existence is what makes Scottish and Catalan independence possible, proves that the world's public opinion is at odds with Spain's obstruction of the 9N poll.

Obviously, there is an uneven fight between Catalonia and Spain on the international chequerboard, where Spanish minister Margallo has deployed all his diplomatic apparatus. But Catalonia must play its cards well. One of Catalonia's trump cards is to make the most of Scotland's path to remind the EU that, sooner or later, it will have to face this phenomenon and that, no matter what, November 9 won't be the end of anything. Xavier Roig wrote in this newspaper that "a slow movement that can't be postponed has begun". Likewise, Neal Ascherson wrote that Scotland's independence is inevitable (17 August 2014).

Although democracy must always be the main argument abroad, we need to take a step further and tell the more lukewarm governments that a Catalan State would benefit them, too. That's why we need to ask ourselves: what can Catalonia contribute to the world? Why should someone support the idea of a referendum? If we fail to address these questions persuasively, it will be difficult for anyone to want to hear us out.

Furthermore, we must be aware that the world will not solve Catalonia's problems. This is entirely for the Catalans to do. That's why if we do things properly and thoroughly, the world will respond with the desired neutrality and non-intervention. Otherwise, it won't. The world will perceive Catalonia as a problem, a nuisance and will close ranks with Madrid against the vote on November 9. This is the key issue on the diplomacy front.