A step forward in Catalan self-government
President Puigdemont’s recent decision to manage immigration powers marks a key moment in the history of Catalonia, surpassing the mere delegation of functions that the Spanish government had defended so far.
History and background of a meaningful agreement
To appreciate the weight of this agreement, it is essential to remember the Majestic Pact between Pujol and Aznar, which laid the foundations for more robust self -government. Now, the transfer of competencies includes areas that have traditionally been considered exclusively state.
Legal and political difficulties
The transition of state functions to autonomous powers presents complications, especially with regard to article 150.2 of the Constitution, which requires the approval of the Congress for any delegation of power.
The difference between transfer and delegation
Controversy focuses on the nature of transfer, which involves a cession of responsibilities with a constitutional value different from the mere delegation of functions.
Government responses and political reactions
Until recently, both President Sánchez and his spokesman, Pilar Alegría, had firmly rejected the idea of ceding powers, considering non-transferable. However, political interests seem to have changed this dynamic.
Transferred powers and their impact
The recent agreement gives the Generalitat the capacity to authorize long -term residences, as well as manage the renewal of these permits. Despite the ultimate responsibility for expulsions it is still in the hands of the central government, Catalonia plays a more active role in managing these processes.
Controversy over internally centers
The agreement also provides that the Generalitat will manage the internment centers for foreigners, a point that generates debate, as some parties, like together, have expressed their intention to close them.
The dilemma of integration and language
The agreement includes commitments to the integration of the immigrant population, with a particular approach to the knowledge of Catalan, although this may be problematic given the state powers in linguistic matters.
Challenges in implementation
The approval of this agreement in Congress is not guaranteed and may be affected by the opposition of other political groups. In addition, the lack of appropriate resources by the regional police could limit the effectiveness of new powers.
The future of citizen security
With a police body that faces cuts and lack of resources, citizen security becomes a critical topic in the context of this new regional management.
Long -term perspectives
Despite the advances achieved, the reality is that transferred powers will continue to be subject to the supervision of the Central Government, which may make it difficult to implement their effective implementation and generate tensions between the two administrations.
The importance of coordination
The coordination between the Generalitat and the Central Government will be essential to ensure that the new responsibilities are effectively managed, thus preventing the expectations generated from frustrations for the population.
