The Need for a New Alliance
Xavier Domènech has recently proposed a vision of unity among the pro-sovereignty left forces in Catalonia, identifying three key actors: the Republican Left, the Comuns and the CUP. However, his idea of ’coalescence’ does not specify whether it is a simple collaboration, an electoral coalition or the creation of a new party. This proposal, while presenting a clear intention, is not new and has appeared repeatedly in the Catalan political debate, especially in the face of the confusion that has followed the independence process.
Diagnosis of the Catalan Society
We agree with Domènech on the need for a broad space for the national left that seeks to win, and in his analysis of the social reality of Catalonia. He mentions a ‘historical bloc’ that includes the popular classes and sectors of the middle bourgeoisie that feel dispossessed by the current system, a bloc that has manifested itself at key moments, such as October 3, 2017.
The October 3rd Blog: An Ignored Majority
However, Domènech’s proposal falls short when it fails to address the profound changes that took place during and after those events. His analysis seems to ignore the mobilizations and social transformations that emerged, as well as the role of the institutions that have conditioned the current dynamics.
Strategic Errors in Approach
The first notable error in his argument is the lack of attention to the events of 2017. Domènech contrasts ‘patriotic unity governments’ with ‘left-wing tripartites’, without acknowledging that the political reality has evolved significantly since then. This simplistic view can lead to serious strategic errors.
Expired Regional Perspectives
Furthermore, Domènech insists on an autonomic perspective that seems obsolete, arguing that there is an electoral space to be filled among right-wing parties. However, we ask ourselves: what differences are there really between this new national left and the policies of previous governments?
Towards a Republic of the Social Majority
The proposal that should guide the national left must be based on the needs of the social majority, not on partisan interests. It is time to define a program that reflects the aspirations of the October 3rd bloc, with a clear vision of political, economic and social sovereignty.
A Minimum Necessary Program
This program should include political sovereignty to implement policies that improve the lives of the working classes, as well as economic sovereignty to combat job insecurity and real estate speculation. The fight for access to housing, quality education, and a public healthcare system should also be priorities.
Building a Common Future
To conclude, the mission is not only to articulate a left-wing space but to build a political reference that responds to the needs of the social majority, demanding national emancipation, social justice and real democracy. This is the path we will have to chart, taking into account the lessons of the past and the hopes of the future.