Catalan independence movement rallies on Diada, eyes 2027 surge

On the Catalan national holiday, pro-independence activists staged demonstrations in Barcelona, Girona and Amposta, culminating in a large gathering at Plaça Catalunya. Josep Vila, president of the Assemblea Nacional Catalana, announced a forthcoming civil summit to coordinate a renewed campaign aimed at achieving a majority in favor of independence by 2027. The event featured a symbolic burning of the Spanish flag and speeches from leaders such as Xavier Antich, who called for the return of exiled figures and condemned the Partido Popular, Vox and Aliança Catalana as extremist forces.

Regional officials, including Sílvia Paneque and Josep Rull, echoed calls for inclusivity and warned against hate rhetoric. Prominent politicians Oriol Junqueras and Jordi Turull addressed the crowd, linking the independence goal to broader social reforms and blaming current government management for fueling right-wing discontent.