Foreign policy activities of the regions of Spain (the example of the Basque Country and Catalonia)
Journal Title: Eminak - Year 2017, Vol 1, Issue 4
Abstract
This article analyzes the foreign policy of the two most developed the Spanish regions – the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country and Catalonia. It is found, that Spanish autonomous communities are very active in the international relations. An important part of the Catalan and Basque nationalism is to strengthen their national identity by participation on the international scene. An international activities of the regions are embodied by representations abroad. The Basque Country and Catalonia maintain delegations in Brussels, as well as a varying number of trade offices worldwide. The Basque Country has a institutional presence of Basque Government in 74 countries through its six delegations in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and the US. Throughout history this region has had a long tradition of interaction with the rest of the world at the highest levels through government institutions and representatives of economic, social or cultural organizations. The Catalan government has offices in Paris, London, New York, Brussels, Berlin, Vienna, Rome and Lisbon. Catalonia and Basque Country actively promote cross-border cooperation. The Constitution of Spain of 1978 affirmed «the indissoluble unity of the Spanish nation» and asserts that the Spanish national territory is «indivisible» while acknowledging the right to regional self-governance and wide autonomy. The Basque Country and Gatalonia were considered «historic nationalities». The Constitution states that foreign policy remains the exclusive domain of central government of parliamentary monarchy. Only the Spanish parliament can change the constitution. Paradiplomacy is considered as a multifunctional process for the promotion of interests and identity of regions. It is determined, that the paradigmatic activity of the regions is not always coordinated with the central government and requires significant public funds. The referendum 1 October 2017 in Catalonia has become a challenge to the national sovereignty of Spain.
Authors and Affiliations
Lyubava Matlay
Keywords
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- EP ID EP282805
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