The current panorama: a legislature marked by uncertainty
Salvador Illa’s government is in a critical situation, with the possibility of extending the 2025 budget increasingly on the horizon. In a context where the inability to approve a budget is usually an indicator of weakness, the Catalan executive is preparing to face one of its first major obstacles.
History of extensions: a worrying pattern
Catalonia has experienced a persistent political deadlock that has led to budget extensions on several occasions. In the last twelve years, this mechanism has been used up to six times, reflecting a trend that could be repeated with Illa in office.
The Aragonese precedent
The current scenario is reminiscent of the failure of the Pere Aragonès government, which ended up calling early elections after failing to secure the support of the Commons to approve its accounts. This situation has led many to question the current government’s ability to avoid a similar fate.
The dilemma of negotiations
By mid-January, consensus for the new budgets is non-existent. The Minister of Economy, Alicia Romero, has made it clear that a new extension is imminent. Salvador Illa, who was invested with a minority government, has tried to establish contacts with various groups, but the talks have not borne fruit.
Pact strategies
Although Illa has been open to dialogue with the left-wing formations, his approach to the PP and Junts has been limited, which complicates the consensus scenario. The lack of understanding with ERC, which is still struggling with its own internal dynamics, is another significant obstacle.
The government’s response: a plan B
Faced with the imminent extension, the government is designing a decree-law that will allow up to 4,000 million euros to be added to the extended accounts. This temporary solution seeks to mitigate the consequences of a failure that not only affects the executive of Illa, but also reflects the citizens’ frustration with the political inability to generate consensus.
The social impact of political inaction
The current situation feeds disaffection among the population, who observe how politicians seem more interested in debates about salaries and resources for advisers than in ensuring a budget that responds to the needs of society. This disconnect could have long-term consequences for Catalan politics.
Final reflection: an uncertain future
With a possible seventh extension in thirteen years, Catalonia is at a crossroads. The executive’s ability to overcome this budget crisis is crucial not only for its stability, but also for public trust in institutions. Catalan politics will have to reassess its priorities and strategies to prevent citizen frustration from becoming a bigger problem.