Spain has taken an unprecedented step by transferring immigration and border control powers to Catalonia, following a deal between the socialist PSOE government and the separatist Junts per Catalunya. This agreement hands the Catalan regional government authority over deportations, Foreign Internment Centers (CIE), and residence and work permits—powers traditionally held by Madrid.
A particularly controversial aspect is the expanded role of Catalonia’s police, the Mossos d’Esquadra, in managing borders, ports, and airports alongside the National Police and Civil Guard. This shift, coupled with an increase in Mossos personnel to 26,800 officers, has raised concerns that Catalonia is edging closer to state-like autonomy.
The move is being justified under Article 150.2 of the Spanish Constitution, which permits delegating state powers to autonomous communities. However, critics warn this decision sets a dangerous precedent, potentially inspiring other separatist regions like the Basque Country to demand similar powers.
Despite growing alarm over Spain’s unity, the European Union has remained silent. The European Commission, which swiftly intervenes in rule-of-law disputes involving conservative governments, has yet to comment—just as it has avoided taking a stance on the controversial 2023 Amnesty Law.
Junts and the Catalan government are celebrating this as a major victory for self-governance. Meanwhile, the opposition warns it’s another step in the separatists’ long-term plan. Catalonia has already secured a €17 billion debt write-off and control over tax collection. Now, with migration policy in its hands, the next move seems clear: pushing for an independent judiciary and a referendum.
