Unless Catalan parties can work together, there is a danger that Catalonia could soon become ungovernable

The issue of independence has received widespread attention in the aftermath of Sunday’s elections to the Catalan Parliament; however Catalonia is also facing significant economic problems. Montserrat Guibernau argues that pro-independence parties may be reluctant to enter into a coalition with the incumbent CiU due to the risk of being blamed for unpopular spending cuts. Nevertheless, the seriousness of the economic, social and political situation means that parties from all sides of the political spectrum should co-operate to protect the welfare of all citizens living in the region.