Separatist movements in Catalonia, Corsica and Basque : a comparative study.

Abstract

The objective of this research is to better understand and compare the factors that underline the three concepts: Irredentism, Separatism and Autonomism in order to classify the three regions according to the three concepts. Borrowing from the academic literature on the three nationalist movements, this thesis will identify and compare the major factors that played a role in the nationalist movements in Corsica, Basque, and Catalonia. This thesis holds that each case has different factors which motivate each country to demand Irredentism, Autonomism, and Separatism. These three cases do not fit into one context but they vary in importance. The findings of the thesis show that Catalonia, Corsica, and Basque will not get independence, at least not in the next few years. Although the Catalan and Basque economy is rich, but still the political framework plays a bigger role than its economic resources. On the other hand, Spain and France will not let Catalonia, Corsica, and Basque secede due to their economic resources and its impact on the French and Spanish economy.