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2003 The Attitudes of 's Political Parties toward the European Union and the Integration of the Meghan Miller University of North Florida

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This Article is brought to you for and open access by the The sprO ey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry at UNF Digital Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in All Volumes (2001-2008) by an authorized administrator of UNF Digital Commons. For more information, please contact Digital Projects. © 2003 All Rights Reserved The Attitudes of Spain's Political the EU above and relinquish more control to Parties toward the European Autonomous Communities below? Union and the Integration of the This research endeavors to determine the ramifications of this new, grandiose, Euro international order on a micro-political level through the study of four political parties in Meghan Miller Spain. The parties include the People's Party (PP) and the Spanish Socialist Faculty Sponsor: Worker's Party (PSOE), both with a national Dr. David Schwam-Baird, base, and (CiU) of Assistant Professor of Political Science and the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), which are two of the most *A special thanks to the 8 gentlemen who influential nationalist parties. The following granted me an interview for this research analysis thoroughly examines the attitudes project. Their generosity and participation of these parties towards European Union as are very much appreciated and will certainly well as the recent introduction of the euro. help others to achieve a better understanding This paper will explain how the European of Spain's political culture and future. And and monetary union has eliminated certain to Dr. Schwam-Baird, whose guidance and elements of Spain's sovereignty and how expertise made the completion of this this and integration into the EU has affected project possible. the central and regional governments.

With over 30 parties, Spain's political Historical Background landscape seems just as varied as its geographical one. Out from under the The book Spanish Politics Today, by John repression of Franco's forty-year Gibbons, asserts that through a machinery of dictatorship following his death in 1975, repression Franco tried to develop a political and social expression was captured 'homogenized Spain.' In actuality this regionally and is still represented in this stimulated separatism, and a form politically and ideologically. Due to desire for independence in later years (15). these distinct cultural divisions within the Franco's brutal efforts to create a one true Spanish state, it may be better termed a Spanish identity had indeed failed. Though the country of different nations. Spain is expressions of many people's historical and composed of 17 Autonomous Communities cultural roots were limited by military use of in its semi-federalized structure and each force, they were all but forgotten during the one is endowed with numerous powers, dictatorship that lasted from 1939 - 1975. similar to our collection of states, granted to The languages and customs proved very it by the central government headquartered much alive in areas such as , in Madrid. Inevitably economic, social, and Galicia, Valencia, Catalonia and the Basque nationalist tensions between these very Country shortly after Franco's death. different Autonomous Communities and the Moreover, these regions quickly unified central government show up in the capital's themselves politically in order to acquire political arena. As Spain continues to take their rights to autonomy and independence progressive steps towards unification with from the Spanish central government that the much newer, larger, multi-state political were denied to them during dictatorship. entity, the European Union, it finds itself in After the end of Francoism a significant a curious dynamic sandwiched between amount of authority and control was layers of power. What will remain of Spain distributed among these regions with the if it continues to cede more sovereignty to adoption of the Constitution of 1978, which

110 Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry fashioned the Autonomous Communities. exchange for certain concessions. For As.explained by Jose Alvarez Junco and example, in 1993 PSOE was falling short of Adrian Shubert in Spanish History Since support for the upcoming elections. They 1808, "Sovereignty was kept by the Spanish strategically decided to join alliances with state, which transferred broad powers to the the main Catalan party, Convergence and Autonomous Communities, including Union (CiU), and in doing so they formed a legislative and executive authority in areas minority government. such as agriculture, fishing activities, Although CiU is situated on the center­ transport, culture and education public right, meaning more free-market oriented, health, tourism and commerce." (323) and the PSOE is on the center-left and more This new democracy envisioned a labor union oriented, the alliance seemed pluralist system well aware of the various workable because the PSOE was advocating cultures within the Spanish state. Overall, the transference of more autonomy to the Spain has been successful at preserving a regions, which obviously fit together nicely strong state. Yet, Spanish politics has been with CiU's objectives. Yet, later in 1995 "In marked by the struggle for power between the face of scandal, , president of the central government and Autonomous the regional government of Catalonia Communities, especially those of Catalonia withdrew his parliamentary support" (Junco and Euskadi (the Basque name for the 344) of the PSOE government after certain Basque Country). internal corruption had exposed to the For the past three decades the two public. CiU then supported the PP largest parties have been the Spanish government from 1996 on. This illustrates Socialist Worker Party and the People's the 10velhate relationship of nationalist Party. As "leftwing" and "rightwing" parties parties and central government parties that respectively, these two parties embody is perceived from Spanish politics and an political proof of a sense of Spanish identity interesting aspect of how the parliamentary and are considered parties of the central system can function. government. In its first four terms of Since the People's Party overtook government from 1982 to 1996 "the PSOE PSOE in the 1996, and having elected contrived to advocate and support the current President Jose Maria Aznar, issues transfer of powers of more finances and between the regional and central services to the regions and nationalities ... it governments have not diminished. One of also warned of the dangers of excessive the major causes for unrest among them is fragmentation and the need for an overall the European Union. The Spanish state has ceiling (techo) on transfers, as the PSOE put essentially entrusted the European Union it, to preserve the integrity of the state." with some important powers previously (Gibbons 27) Spain was willing to grant a handled by the state. Matters and policies substantial amount of control to the regions that effect Spanish territory are no longer hoping that this would quench their thirst solely decided by Spain. Even though for self-government and leave the Spanish Spain, like all other members, can state intact. participate in the decision-making process, Indeed the struggle for power between the EU has the final say. EU members have the regions and central government has to compromise a certain amount of plagued Spanish politics since the beginning sovereignty in order for the collection of of its new democracy. Trying to balance the European states to properly function as an two is one of the challenges for governing international entity. When the EU addresses parties. Also, it is not uncommon in Spain's topics that directly concern the Basque and parliamentary system for nationalist parties Catalonian regions their inhabitants feel that to support central governing parties in they should be permitted to partake in this

Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry 111 political process. Consequently, regional Basque Country, and the CiU in Catalonia and state politics collide in Spain. and set out for Spain. CiU has held the majority of votes in The Conflict Catalonia since 1980, and thus due to Convergence i Union's importance, I traveled Before joining the EU, more to the capital of Catalonia, , in jurisdictions over regional outcomes was order to speak with representatives and listen dealt to Autonomous Communities by the to their position on European and monetary Spanish state. However, because the EU is union in efforts to understand how it effects officially composed of its member states, their party and region as well as their confusion over regional representation relationship with the parties of the central arises. and Catalans feel that a large government PSOE and PP. part of their previous authority has now been I also journeyed to and Vitoria­ transferred back to the state because Gasteiz, the seat of the Basque presidency, diplomats of the central government, not in the Basque Country (or Euskadi, as it is those of the regions, are usually the official called in the ) to gather the participants in the EU proceedings, same type of information from the Basque including those immediately affecting the Nationalist Party and likewise assess regions, and thus feel that their voice is not relations between the PNV and the central heard. Because regional tensions have a government. "As a group, Basque history of being fierce in the Basque nationalist parties have tended to attract a Country and Catalonia the opinions of their higher percentage of the Basque regional main political parties, the PNV and CiU vote than Catalan or other nationalist or respectively, seemed very pertinent to the regionalist parties in their respective areas." current state of political affairs within Spain. (Gibbons 25) There are various nationalist "At the heart of the issue of regional parties in the Basque Country and so, relations with the EU lie the constitutional regional politics is more fragmented there and statutory ambiguities of external than in Catalonia, but the PNV has more relations and foreign affairs. Under article seats in the Spanish parliament than the 149 of the Constitution, the autonomous others. In addition, discussion with these communities are required to conform to the two nationalist parties and their relationship over-riding principle that the Spanish state with the central government also enable me is sovereign in the matter of international to compare how the PNV and CiU differ relations. However, the various statutes of with each other on these issues. autonomy since 1989, have given the autonomous communities greater freedom Attitudes of the People's Party and the in the conduct of international relations." Spanish Socialist Worker's Party toward Gibbons 35 the European Union

In order to assess the tension between I found very positive attitudes toward these parties and those of the central the European Union. Each representative government with respect to the EU it was interviewed claimed that his party was and necessary to obtain subjective views from had always been in favor of monetary union party members with substantial knowledge and the adoption of a single European about the international matter at hand. On a currency, the euro. Joaquin Almunia, mission towards discovery, I arranged presidential candidate in Spain's 2000 interviews with members of the PP, the elections, Representative in the Spanish PSOE and the PNV in Madrid, as well as Parliament as well as Secretary General of other interviews with the PNV in the PSOE, said that joining the EU and

112 Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry converting to the euro was a very good idea running as smoothly as espoused concerning ana proudly stated, "Yes, it was the best the social implications of Spain's new decision our government made." He is economic approach since European and referring to PSOE's administration of monetary union. parliament preceding the current PP While I was in Madrid there was a administration. The PSOE claims that the General Strike scheduled to occur on June PP takes all the credit for the impressive 20th and sure enough as soon as the clock economic growth Spain has at present struck midnight, as I inadvertently happened because of the progressive economic witnessed, the picketers started to parade policies the PSOE put into place and their through the center of the city. The strike took thrusting of Spain into the European place not only in Madrid, but also within Monetary Union. numerous cities in Spain. The World section Incidentally, People's Party of CBS News online reported it as follows, representative in the Spanish Parliament for "The unions are protesting cuts in the province of , Ifiigo Herrera, did unemployment benefits. Their one-day spend time going over many statistics with nationwide protest aims to embarrass me indicating the economic growth that has conservative Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar taken place since President Aznar has been as he prepares to host a two-day European in office. The data he offered me proves Union summit starting Friday in Seville. It Spain is growing leaps and bounds, poses the stiffest challenge to Aznar from economically speaking. He handed me a unions since he took power in 1996." (In pamphlet printed by the PP called efforts to escape possible bias from the Socioeconomic Balance from six year of Spanish media I sought out an American Government 1996-2002: Spain advances source to sum up the events that took place.) which boasts no public debt, lower interest This public is essentially frustrated with the rates, as well as more employment among neo-liberal economic policies the PP other signs of a healthy economy. Herrera administration has continued to implement in informed me, "In 1996 when Aznar was order to become more competitive with the discussing the standards [that have to be met rest of the European Union. for participation in the European Monetary There were questions as to whether it Union] Spain did not comply with any of was "successful" or not, as well as how them. And we were the first to complete all many actually participated and what percent four." This fact demonstrates a tenacious of business was actually halted by the strike. Spain that desires to improve along with the Many claimed the numbers and facts were rest of Europe. not accurately reported by the Spanish Although both the PP and PSOE are media to discourage the workers and pleased with the economic advancement, supporters of the strike since it is allegedly there is a lack of social data in the pamphlet "controlled" by the Popular Party. I received such as average salaries and job Nonetheless, it is not necessary to analyze security. It should also be noted that in 2002 the exact numbers in order to infer that on a the average unemployment rate for the national level the mobilization and European Union has been around 7.5% and occurrence of a strike is telling of some sort that of Spain is significantly higher and has of social dissatisfaction. But the fact that the increased from a rate of 10.5% in 2001 to Popular Party has the majority in parliament 11.2 in 2002 according to the online means they were obviously voted for and resources available at the OECD website still favored by a large portion of the (www.oecd.org). Furthermore, the economic Spanish population. indicators illustrated by the PP do not seem In response to claims of vast economic proof enough to the PSOE that everything is progression, for instance by the pamphlet

Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry 113 printed by the PP as previously mentioned, new democracy was established, "Indeed the it doesn't seem logical for people to promotion of Euskadi and Catalonia organize such an event if everyone in internationally (mainly for foreign investors) Spanish society is content from the central began studiously to avoid the use of any government's economic policies. On the terms relating to Spain preferring to refer to subject of the General Strike, Almunia was themselves as 'European', or sympathetic to the cause, "The government 'Mediterranean'." (Longhurst 33) Because of cannot leave its workers unprotected." what happened to them in the past and their Herrera, in defense of the Popular Party negative associations with Spain and Spanish said, "Our party has welcomed the PSOE to government, Basques and Catalans associate present us with an alternative." According to themselves with a more European image. Herrera, thus far the PSOE had failed to do With the change from dictatorship to so giving the PP no other choice but to democracy these regions were able to voice proceed as planned. This also illustrates their opinion and express their enthusiasm quite a division among the populace for joining with the European Community, concerning protection for workers, which later to become the European Union. This the PSOE as well as other socialist and desire for a closer relationship with Europe communist parties strongly favor, and fewer has remained at the top of their priority list. regulations for businesses, favored by the The Economic and Finance Department's PP who seem to be progressing towards a General Director of Economic Programming more capitalistic system. for the Government of Catalonia, Josep Yet, despite criticisms from dissatisfied Pages i Munoz, explained that "with Franco, workers and citizens, both the PP and PSOE Spain was isolated, for Catalonia the north want the recognition for Spain's economic was the objective as well integration in the development. Undoubtedly, it has been a European Community. Now, the Catalan result of efforts on both sides promoting economy is very internationalist, one of the further modernization. The infamous vision most industrialized [in Europe], composed of Spain as a somewhat 'backwards' country of important services and industries." For until fairly recently, largely due to Franco's Catalonia, membership to the European isolationist politics and push for a self­ Union makes up an essential part of their sufficient Spain, is constantly trying to be economic interests and sense of self within left behind by politicians and citizens alike. the context of Europe. Many Spaniards look at Europe as the ideal This tendency to identify with Europe to which Spain should progress. Alex holds true for Euskadi as well according to Longhurst reinforces this concept in the Ifiaki Anasagasti, spokesman in the Spanish book Contemporary Spanish Cultural parliament for the PNY. When asked if he Studies, "It reflected a blanket rejection of thought that Euskadi identified more with all that had been constructed for so many Europe or Spain now after integration of the years as 'typically Spanish' as shameful euro, he replied, "All the time people are evidence of the backwardness engendered thinking on a more European scale rather and perpetuated by the Franco regime." (31) than on a Spanish scale." Basques seem to be looking towards Europe to increase their Attitudes of the National Basque Party opportunities as a people. They have a and Convergence and Union toward the strong desire to become more integrated European Union with Europe as is indicated by their political orientation towards more representation in The Catalan and Basque regions have the European Union. The politicians with insisted on openly distancing themselves whom I spoke immediately stressed that from the rest of Spain for years since the they wanted to be heard on matters that

114 Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry impact their region politically and member of Convergence and European eC6nomically. Parliament treasurer, was also in favor of At the beginning of my interview with "intensifying the coordination of monetary lfiaki Rica, Director of European Affairs for policies" in the European Union. the and member of Compared to PSOE, the PP's spin on PNV, I inquired about the PNV's goals, his monetary union is definitely more focused response was that "The main objective [for on the economic benefits as opposed to the PNV] is the survival of the Basque social concerns. Herrera stated that one of people. The future of Euskadi is in the the primary goals for the People's Party is European Unions beginnings." These "To integrate all of the countries in the statements indicate what an important role European Union in order to form a the PNV feels the European Union is for the competitive market." Yet, the People's Party Basque Country and how they envision the also recognizes the arduousness in gathering EU as an integral part of their progression political consensus from a body with so as a people. Therefore, when they feel many diverse members and outlooks. unable to partake in the political processes Herrera conveyed, "It is very difficult to within the European Union it is a very come to a decision on various political serious and frustrating matter for the matters. For example, defense. A European National Basque Party. defense would take enormous resources." Along a similar line of thought but Concerns about the European Union conveyed to me in a more optimistic tone, Pages said, "The next big step that we're Now under an international system, it is going to see is in the direction of a important to examine any concerns about European defense." It is probably no this new theme in Spanish politics. The coincidence that the PP looks upon this PSOE, as well as the whole Socialist Group matter as complex and cumbersome while of the European party, the communist CiU mentions it as a mere obstacle to be parties and even the queen, had originally overcome. Efforts to relieve the Spanish advocated that social protections as well as state of its military power in addition to its economic criteria be included in the monetary policy within any short time span Maastricht Treaty, the agreement signed by would certainly be met with resistance by EU member countries establishing certain the central governing parties and Herrera's conditions for adoption of the euro. When comment reveals a sense of this complexity asked if PSOE was satisfied with the that comes along with any more potential defining elements in the treaty Almunia threats to Spanish sovereignty. asserted, "We need to coordinate [our The euro was welcomed with open politics] better. After introducing the euro arms by and large by Spain because it everyone believes that everything is now offered guarantees of greater stability and complete, but we need to continue economic prosperity. It seems as though improving the system and become stronger. they might have even felt a little relieved to Social concerns need to be present as well." tum over the responsibility to the Central Almunia continued to address the Bank of Europe. But, the thought of giving importance of more political coherence and up some, if not all, control over a country's he expressed that PSOE would like to see prided military, and in essence their show of the need for an organization within the EU physical strength, is probably an idea that that has the capacity to scrutinize control makes not only Spain a little uneasy. For and follow-up on agreements to make sure obvious reasons, a European defense would things continue smoothly. Carles Gas6liba definitely demand very solid "political of the CiU, representative in charge of coherence" among the member countries. European politics, executive committee

Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry 115 The Euro Spaniard, whose wages stayed the same as before the introduction of the euro, incurs a The representatives of the PNV and CiU significant reduction in buying power. expressed their impatience for the Yet, even when addressing this issue conversion to the euro, although and its possible impacts in my interviews, interestingly enough, I learned that the no one was able to foresee what the long­ recently abandoned peseta originated in term effects might be. One possible Catalonia. These regions have been inference is that if wages do not increase in markedly more economically progressive harmony with this price inflation due to job than other parts of Spain. Listening to creation or any other positive economic representatives from the PNV and CiU made effect of the euro, despite how well the it very clear to me that they were exited and economy may seem to be doing, the classes enthusiastic about the euro as well, as if will become more polarized. The wealthy switching to the euro allowed them to be set will benefit from the new economic free from an old ball and chain. advantages resulting from monetary union They seem to have absolutely no and the lower classes will be stuck at the sentimental difficulties adopting another bottom with low wages and higher prices. European trait, uniting them even closer Almunia from the PSOE concurred, with the other countries and trading in the "Citizens believe they will suffer more now obsolete national currency. In fact, because of having to pay higher prices. several Basques emphasized to me how Their buying power has diminished." happy it made them to know that the In contrast to the enthusiasm for the Basques in the north and the Basques in the euro by Basques and Catalans that the south, those in and Spain representatives from the PNV and CiU had respectively, now share the same currency. shared, according to Almunia, "Public Not only is the euro bringing the Basques opinion was favorable to the euro, but there closer to the rest of Europe, but also proves was fear of change and many Spaniards to be strengthening emotional ties between wanted to stick with the peseta." This in Basques separated by the border. some ways contradicts what Herrera, At face value there is much enthusiasm representative for the PP, told me, "There for the euro, yet the professed economic was never a time when the people didn't advantages have apparently overshadowed support it [the conversion to the euro]. some other important political and social Maybe only the older generations were issues. Along with the conversion to the afraid of change." euro came a substantial hike in prices of consumer goods. Joaquim Llimona, Representation for the Regions secretary of Foreign Relations for Catalonia and participant in CiU s International The Basque Country and Catalonia feel Relations Committee agrees, "The public very strongly that they should have a say on voices many complaints because of the any action or question taken up by the EU higher prices." Unfortunately when Spain that affects or might affect their region. I converted from the peseta to the euro the was informed extensively on the matter by price of just about everything increased Jose Maria , Foreign Affairs despite government efforts to prevent such Coordinator for PNV in Bilbao, the Basque an occurrence, (some citizens even claim it Country's finance capital, largest city and was the government that started it). The home to the famous modem art museum the fact remains, it was common for the price of Guggenheim. (The museum's extraordinary some goods, grocery items in particular, to structural design wonderfully symbolizes have risen 50%. This means that the average Basque efforts to advance pass the old

116 Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry stigma of Spanish backwardness and expressed that there is "very strong" tension become a more modem and Europe-oriented between them and Madrid and with an air of nation.) When asked what his party's discontent added, "But Madrid does not objectives were he replied, "Our final have any interest in solving the problem." objective is to be a political participant in The Basque Country is not the only the European Union, that is to say a region having troubles with the central federated state within two dozen years in government. Catalonia also has a history of the future European federation. This is the separatist, nationalist politics and a long key to survival for us as a people." revolutionary (though anarchist) tradition. It is very apparent that the nationalist In his book Divided Nations: Class, Politics, component to this party is no secret. Later and Nationalism in the Basque Country and he told me that PNV has been around for Catalonia, Juan Dfez Medrano compares the past 107 years and "that more than half the two, "Despite strong similarities of its existence has been prohibited" due to between the two nationalist movements, circumstances of the and which are consistent with the strong those exiled from the country. The PNV's similarity between the socioeconomic turbulent history with Spanish government structures of the two regions during this is very much alive in the minds of members period, nationalist organization that were and they do not want it swept under the rug. both separatist and revolutionary garnered "Vivimos juntos pero no revueltos," more support in the Basque Country than in Etxebarria happily asserts, a common saying Catalonia." (113) meaning we live next to each other but are Catalans tend to see themselves in a not the same. He obviously realizes that European light, yet identify with their geographically the Basque Country will Catalan heritage and language, as do the always neighbor the rest of Spain and Basques with theirs. The efforts to promote believes that the PNV could have a better the acquisition of the Catalan and Basque relationship with the central government if languages within their respective regions it were more open to communication. demonstrate attempts to revive this sense of Unfortunately, the PNV has not been able to nationalism. Therefore, it is questionable if escape the bad reputation of the Basque usage of these languages will flourish. terrorist group ETA. "Survey data collected in 1988, for example The PNV speaker, Anasagasti, believed reveal that ability to speak the regional that Aznar's government used ETA as an language in the Basque Country (20 excuse to vilify the Basque Country and the percent) than in Catalonia (52 percent)." PNV in efforts to capture more support (Mendrano 20) The total population of from the public. He did not support these Spain is 39.6 million, the Basque Country acts and stressed that "ETA's violence has 2.2 million and Catalonia has 6.2 destroys everything" including negotiation million. Out of the country's population efforts with Madrid, (the central government this means that only about 1% speaks is often referred to as Madrid because it is Basque and a little over 8% speak Catalan. the heart of Spanish authority). Even though Catalan is more widely In addition, Rica claimed that "talking spoken in Catalonia, increasing the bilingual badly of the Basque Country" works in the population seems to be a very slow process; Spanish government's favor because it Catalonia: Nation Building Without a State "distracts the people" from more important estimates that "in 2026 it could reach 54 issues that are not as easy to simplify as a percent." (McRoberts 159) Catalan is plain case of good vs. evil. While discussing spoken by a substantial amount of people in these matters in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where the Catalonia. However, this data shows that Basque presidency is situated, he also within almost a 40-year period, speakers of

Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry 117 Catalan "could" rise only 2 percentage parties that are suggesting a revision of the points. It is doubtful that all inhabitants of constitution with the purpose of allowing Catalonia would speak Catalan even within more representation for the regions in Spain. the next two centuries at this pace, but Gas6liba rejected the idea of any such within this same time period Catalan constitutional reform, "We think it is not speakers would definitely be a considerable necessary. But we do propose a more majority within the region. comprehensive, friendlier application of the After examining the situation in constitution towards the demands Catalonia Catalonia, assessing the possibility to revive makes for more self-government." Gas6liba the Basque language in Euskadi to a point seemed convinced that, as he put it, "a more where the majority of people living in the open and flexible reading is possible within region spoke it would prove a far greater the constitution." challenge. The current effort by Basque nationalists to promote the teaching of Opposition from the Central Government Basque in schools does not seem practical when looking at the numbers. Yet statistics The People's Party opposes this more and centuries aside, in the short run it might open reading and claim it has nothing to do result in a successful attempt to unite the with the regions in and of themselves but Basque people politically by reminding instead for the sake of efficiency and for the them of the heritage they share and should good of Spain as a whole. Herrera continue to share, (and at the same time a maintained that there was no need for reminder of those who are different from further representation of the regions in the them). Understandably, both the Basque , "They are represented Country and Catalonia do not want to see an in the Spanish Parliament. That is where end to their language because it symbolizes they draw conclusions concerning the part of their distinct identities. regions, and they are in tum represented in Concerned for the general welfare of the European Parliament." Herrera considers Catalonia, Carles Gas6liba declared the goal his work to be very centered in the area of of his party "is to gain the maximum the EU and international politics. He agreed amount of self government for Catalonia as that they are important areas of historical possible." This nationalist goal, similar to identity and assured that no one was trying the Basque one, may not be feasible in the to take away their identity from them, but immediate future although they too are concluded, "To pretend that each Nationalist working hard for more representation in the Parliament and region deserves adequate EU forums in Brussels. Like other representation in the European Parliament is regions of Europe, CiU would like to have impractical." more involvement in matters impinging on Llimona disagreed with this stance the territories of Catalonia. This would taken by the central government, "We are maximize their autonomy by regaining a say not asking to have embassies, nor peace on matters that affect Catalonian lands in treaties, nor to modify borders." This the decision making process, instead of statement depicts the general Catalan leaving them to diplomats of the central position that advocates more autonomy government who, according to the PNV and rather than independence. He further CiU, do not adequately represent their addressed the troubles between Catalonia interests. Gas6liba affirms, "We insist on and Madrid, "The state is not in favor of being a greater presence and having more substantiating claims made by the regions. direct participation in the European Union." There is a very strong government in While discussing matters of the Madrid with a very clear majority in constitution he told me that there are some parliament. It seems very restrictive to us in

118 Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry the area concerning self-government and (EU)." There are currently three MEPs from particularly in the area of the European Spain whose liberal parties have elected to Union." I came across this impression from be placed under this conglomerate European all 6 of the representatives I met with from party, two are from Democratic the PNV and CiU. There seems to be a very Convergence of Catalonia and one is from strong feeling of discontent toward the the Coalition of the Canary Islands. In fact, "restrictive" central government. Mr. Gas61iba is one of these three Even though the European Union representatives, as well as current treasurer permits representation from different regions for the party, and has been a MEP under the of Europe the Spanish state is not willing to ELDR Group since 1986. go along with this and it is a matter that is Likewise, the PNV is represented by subject to the will of each member state of Josu Ortuondo, the previous Mayor of the EU. The PNV's stance on this issue Bilbao, but again is representing regional according to Rica was that "Article 203 of interests under the auspices of a the Maastricht Treaty allows representation conglomerate party. The web page for for entities other than states where decision Ortuondo on the PNV site states: "So as to can be made." Rica added, "The problem is be able to develop its political objectives not in Brussels, it is not in the Maastricht more effectively in Europe, the PNV has Treaty, the problem is in Madrid." joined the so-called The PNV is very unhappy with the way - in the Parliament." This web page later the PP has handled this element of claims the "Nationalist Coalition" that they European and monetary Union in Madrid. joined with other nationalist parties When I inquired how the PNV is currently "obtained a historical record in votes and represented in the EU he stated, "We don't won two seats in the European Parliament." have official representation. We have a Although the MEPs from Catalonia and the delegation, an office, in Brussels. We cannot Basque Country do not explicitly represent be present in the common forums; this their regions in the European Parliament, includes Galicia, Catalonia, Extremadura, this certainly puts CiU and the PNV in a and all Autonomous Communities, because better position to advance their political it is impeded by Madrid. Madrid even goals, rather than waiting for permission to wanted to stop us from setting up our office represent themselves from the Spanish in Brussels. This is not right, these are our central government. rights that Madrid does not permit us." Spain' Sovereignty The Backdoor to Representation The structure of the European Union is a Spain does not allow for the explicit multi-state entity and thus, can only handle representation of the regions in the EU by matters on a state level. Its powers are their corresponding nationalist party; limited and as mentioned before will not however one of the ways Catalonia's CiU interfere with internal affairs of its member has seemed to circumvent the obstacle is states, this management is seen as the states through its affiliation with a European responsibility and is outside of its official political party called the Group of the parameters. The regions of Catalonia and European Liberal, Democrat and Reform Euskadi realize that the EU cannot provide Party. According to its web page on the them any support in wanting to formalize Internet, the "ELDR Group brings together their participation with the EU because it is Members of the European Parliament technically a state matter. Pages asserts, "It's (MEPs) from the liberal parties of the a fight between different forces; on the one Member States of the European Union hand it cedes sovereignty to Brussels, it has

Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry 119 ceded [sovereignty] to the Autonomous have caused the central governing parties to Communities, but in specific cases it recovers view the EU in a more negative light sovereignty. .. the role of the state continues compared to the nationalist parties, figuring to be very relevant. The state hasn't the PP and the PSOE would not be happy weakened, not at all. The state is taking over about relinquishing former responsibilities competences, which we believe do not of the state on behalf of integration. To my belong to it, so it can maintain its position." surprise it has in some ways enabled the Llimona comments on any worries central governing parties to gain a certain there might have been about Spain's advantage over nationalist parties due to the sovereignty before the monetary union came official status' the state holds within the EU into effect. "A state defines itself by certain and the direct participation that it denies the elements. To renounce a part of its PNVandCiU. sovereignty is an important decision, but Yet, the nationalist parties, and the there weren't any reservations about it." regions they represent, look favorably upon Later he explains some deeper concerns due the EU and the euro because it enables them to the loss of one's monetary policy, "To to be less dependent on the Spanish state and lose this capacity to utilize money as an more open to opportunities with the rest of instrument in order to adjust foreign trade or Europe. This research also demonstrates how monetary inflation is very important, it integration into the EU did not necessarily helps guarantee stability. Yet there was no reduce the central government's influence, serious reflection on the matter." but instead prompted Spain to shift its I encountered no obvious differences weight, therefore creating a new set of between the PNV and CiU with reference to tensions between the parties of the central the loss of sovereignty Spain has incurred, government and the nationalist parties. both appeared to recognize the utility of a For now the state is the central state's monetary policy and treated Spain's component in the European Union and this sovereignty with a general indifference. Any will serve to reinforce Spain's power over worry over giving this responsibility over to its Autonomous Communities. Even though the Central Bank of Europe was far the form of sovereignty seems to have taken outweighed by their delight to be integrated a different shape in this international into the European community for what they conglomerate it still is able to assert itself viewed as greater stability for their region and effectively in the international arena. While diminished dependence on the Spanish state. the displeased regions of Euskadi and The Popular Party according to Herrera Catalonia may not directly threaten Spain's is not worried about Spain losing any authority, there is serious tension between sovereignty either, but that's because he these nationalist parties and the central denies Spain has lost any, "We are not going government (particularly towards the current to lose any sovereignty, I'm sure about that. administration of the People's Party under We don't lose it just because of having President Aznar). common markets and trade." Later, we The regions have grown very protective discussed other possible concerns for his over their people as well as the territory party with respect to the EU and the euro and they have worked hard gaining control over there seemed to be nothing overwhelming and do not want this power taken away from from that end. He then alluded to the them again. Rica maintains, "We don't mind difficulties with ETA: "The only big problem granting authority to the European Union we have right now is terrorism." over our competences for the common This paper shows that European and good, but we want to participate in the monetary union have caused Spain to decision about them and not just watch technically lose elements of its sovereignty them fall into Madrid's hands." as a state. I originally assumed this would

120 Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry All eight of the representatives Balance Socioeconomico de seis anos int~rviewed conceded at one point or de Gobierno 1996-2002: Espana Advanza. another during the conversation that there (Pamphlet produced by the People's Party). was tension between the political parties, and although it may be the very nature of Gibbons, John. Spanish Politics Today. politics it should not be dismissed. Manchester: Manchester UP, 1999. Catalonia and Euskadi as separate nations do have very distinct ideas about their McRoberts, Kenneth. Catalonia: Nation identity and a tendency to distance Building Without A State. Oxford: Oxford themselves from Spain. They continue to UP, 2001. succeed in doing this by continuing to conserve their own languages and customs Mendrano, Juan Dfez. Divided Nations: locally as well as by believing themselves to Class, Politics, and Nationalism in the be more European rather than Spanish. Basque Country and Catalonia. New York: Therefore, it is still very important to Cornell UP, 1995. balance and maintain the pluralist model that Spain has seemed to successfully Longhurst, Alex. "Culture and function under up until the present. Even development: the impact of 1960s though in favor of the European Union and 'desarrollismo'." Contemporary Spanish the euro, the Basque Nationalist Party and Cultural Studies. New York: Arnold Convergence and Union currently sense Publishers, 2000. 17-28. Spain as inflexible. It appears as though Spain wants to withhold representation in Organization for Economic Cooperation efforts to conserve authority because a and Development: Unemployment Rate in number of its powers have slipped away Spain versus the average for the European towards the European Union. Union. Spain, like many other countries, is www.oecd.org/pdfIM000370001M00037288. dealing with a very curious dilemma. The pdf1200l. functions of the 'state' have undertaken a sort of metamorphosis and the big question "Spain's Workers Walk Out". is then, 'What will become of the state?' (Associated Press). CBS News.com. Anasagasti put it very succinctly, "The www.cbsnews.comlstories/2002/ concept of the 'state' is too small to 06120/worldlmain5l2855.shtml. accomplish big things, and too big to achieve small things." Currently amid the Interviews Autonomous Communities and the European Union, for now Spain will be Almunia, Joaquim. Secretary of the faced with serving the interests of those Spanish Socialist Workers Party and above and below while continually candidate in Spain's 2000 presidential challenged to determine the role of the state, election. Madrid. July 8, 2002. even as the worldwide definition of sovereignty becomes increasingly obscure. Anasagasti, Iiiaki. Spokesman in the Spanish Parliament for the Basque References Nationalist Party and also canditate in Spain's 2000 presidential election. Madrid. Alvarez Junco, Jose and Adrian June 25, 2002. Shubert. Spanish History Since 1808. London: Arnold Publishers. 2000.

Osprey Journal of Ideas and Inquiry 121 Etxebarria, Jose Mari. Foreign Affairs Llimona, Joaquim. Secretary of Foreign Coordinator for the Basque Nationalist Relations for Catalonia and participant in Party. Bilbao, Pais Vasco. June 12,2002. CiU's International Relations Committee. Barcelona, Catalonia. June 17, 2002. Gas6liba, Carles. Convergence and Union representative in charge of European Pages i Munoz, Josep. Economic and politics, executive committee member of Finance Department's General Director of Democratic Convergence and European Economic Programming for the Parliament treasurer. Barcelona, Catalonia. Government of Catalonia. Barcelona, June 17,2002 Catalonia. June 19,2002.

Herrera, Ifiigo. People's Party Rica, Ifiaki. Director of European representative in the Spanish Parliament for Affairs for the Basque government and the province of Alicante, member of the member of the Basque Nationalist Party. Foreign Affairs committee and the Spanish Vitoria-Gasteiz, Pais Vasco. June 13, 2002. Parliament's round table for discussion on the EU. Madrid. June 21, 2002.

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