Independence would cause a new set of problems

Those who want independence for Catalonia has given many arguments for why seceding from Spain is a good idea. But other Spanish governments and politicians remain silent on the issue, avoiding any technical analysis about the implications of secession.

Yesterday the Institute of Economic Studies, which is the CEOE's think tank, did just that in the second study that it has done on the Catalonia Question. The study reveals that independence would not create as much economic havoc in the region as people originally thought, and Catalonia's budget is not irreparably dependent on national funding. The process is similar to what could happen in Scotland, would have a serious economic impact for Catalonia, and its citizens have the right to know this. Leaving Spain, they would leave the EU and its GDP would drop by around 1%. Catalonia would not have much backing internationally, which is helpful if not necessary when a nation vies for independence.

Catalonians should think hard about the pros and cons associated with independence and not risk more than they can afford, despite promises that independence will bring greater economic prosperity. The Spanish and Catalonian governments must find a solution. Both parties, based on what they do and don't do, have gone too long without having a productive dialogue about this conflict.