Exiled separatist leader is likely to return to a very different Catalonia
Summary
The Spanish constitutional court is expected to allow former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont to return to Catalonia after nearly nine years in exile. Since his departure, the political situation and population in Catalonia have changed significantly, with a shift toward cooperation with Madrid and a more diverse and multicultural society.Key Facts
- Puigdemont fled Catalonia in 2017 to avoid jail for his role in an illegal independence effort.
- Nine of his colleagues were imprisoned but released within three years.
- The 2024 amnesty law may protect Puigdemont from arrest if the court agrees.
- Since 2024, Catalonia is led by the Socialists’ party for the first time since 1980, promoting cooperation with the Spanish government.
- Economic concerns like jobs and housing have become more important to young Catalans than independence.
- About 82% of Catalan young adults (18-30 years) still live with their parents due to high housing costs.
- The foreign-born population in Catalonia has increased from 13.8% in 2017 to 18.7% today, and Barcelona is now very multicultural with many immigrants.
- New far-right nationalist groups have emerged, opposing immigration and influencing Catalan nationalist politics.
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