Are Former Spanish Colonies Likely to Support Catalan Independence?
The recent Catalan independence referendum in October 2017 has generated widespread interest, especially among countries with historical ties to Spain. One such group includes the former Spanish colonies in Latin America and the Philippines. However, the reactions from these regions have been largely unremarkable, with notable gaps in official statements. Let's explore the potential stance of these countries and investigate the historical context behind their possible reactions.
Philippines and Catalonia: A Cold Response
For the past several weeks, there has been a search for any official response from the Filipino government regarding the Catalan situation. To date, there has been a conspicuous absence of statements from both local media and relevant government websites. Even the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Embassy in Madrid have remained silent. Given the absence of such statements, one might wonder if any official recognition of Catalan independence is planned.
Historically, the Philippines has not been overly vocal on issues of international separatism, especially in relation to Spain. As a former Spanish colony, the Philippines has maintained a certain distance from Spanish political issues, due to its significant stabilizing role in the region and its historical ties with other Latin American nations. The prevailing opinion among Filipino policymakers is that issues within Spain are the country's own internal affairs, which are best left to be resolved within the country.
Philippine Policy on Separatism
During the early resolution of the Catalan issue, if we were to look at the Philippines' stance, it might mirror its historical response to similar situations – such as its position on Kosovo in 2008. At that time, then-Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo articulated a statement supporting the idea of independence for Kosovo but emphasized the importance of international principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. A similar sentiment could be expected from the Philippine government regarding the Catalan situation.
Furthermore, due to the presence of a separatist insurgency in the southern part of the country, known as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the Filipino government has a cautious stance on international separatist movements. The Philippine government prioritizes national stability and security, and any recognition of independent Catalonia could potentially threaten existing peace agreements and territorial integrity.
Latin American Perspective
Latin America, being a former Spanish colony, has a unique relationship with Spain. However, the current Latin American countries are unlikely to support Catalan independence. This is due to two main factors: lack of centralized representation and political affiliations. Many people of Catalan descent in Latin America, including the Philippines, predominantly speak Spanish and do not exert centralized control over any significant geographic area or political lobby. They generally prefer to avoid Spanish political issues unless they are related to receiving exiles.
Historically, Latin American countries have a long tradition of providing a safe haven for Spanish exiles, such as during the time of General Francisco Franco in Spain. This has made it second nature for Latin American countries to offer asylum to Spanish individuals while maintaining a low profile in Spanish political matters.
Future Recognition and Domino Effect
While no official recognition of Catalan independence is likely to come from the Philippines or other Latin American countries in the short term, a domino effect in the future is not entirely out of the question. With the increasing success of the Catalan movement and the establishment of a proper Catalan congress, one Latin American country might take the lead and recognize Catalan independence. This initial recognition might prompt neighboring countries to follow suit, as it could be more politically palatable and strategically beneficial in the long run.
However, such recognition is contingent upon the establishment of a stable Catalan government and a clear path toward independence that can be internationally accepted. Without these assurances, any potential recognition by Latin American countries would face significant political and strategic challenges.