# Catalan political polarization and division

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/catalan-political-polarization-and-division
> Updated: 2026-09-23T10:59:54.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 4.

The Catalan political landscape is characterized by deep divisions and increasing polarization. Initially, the pro-independence movement faced internal discord and fragmentation among political leaders, a situation described as a “deeply divided political landscape” following the 2015 ‘Junts pel Sí’ era.

This fragmentation has evolved into a broader polarization between independence movements and those defending Spanish unity. This environment has resulted in a perceived lack of space for moderate Catalanism, which seeks to protect Catalan identity and language through dialogue and participation within the Spanish state.

As the 2027 electoral cycle approaches, this fragmentation is intensifying among pro-independence forces. Junts is currently facing identity challenges and competition from Aliança Catalana, while ERC is positioning itself as an institutional party focused on pacts, and CUP is becoming more integrated into municipal candidacies. Internal tensions within Junts have led Secretary General Jordi Turull to signal a firm stance against post-electoral agreements with Aliança Catalana, stating the party aims to keep the rival group “as far from power as possible.”

Recent developments indicate a significant shift in voter priorities. Aliança Catalana, led by Sílvia Orriols, is experiencing substantial growth by combining unilateral independence goals with a platform focused on immigration and public security. Polling data suggests the party’s voting intention has risen from 3.8% to 16.7% for the 2028 elections, placing it ahead of ERC. This rise contributes to broader political fragmentation, where the difficulty in forming majorities may necessitate pre-election coalitions to ensure governability.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-23: Aliança Catalana rises as Catalan voters prioritize immigration and security

Aliança Catalana is rising in Catalonia as voters shift focus from independence toward immigration and security, contributing to increased political fragmentation in the region.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aliana-catalana-rises-as-catalan-voters-prioritize-immigration-and-security

### 2026-09-20: Catalan political landscape faces fragmentation ahead of 2027 elections

Catalan political forces face increasing fragmentation ahead of 2027 elections, with Junts facing direct competition from Aliança Catalana and ruling out any post-electoral pacts with the group.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catalan-political-landscape-faces-fragmentation-ahead-of-2027-elections

### 2026-09-13: Catalan politics faces polarization between independence and unity

The political landscape in Catalonia is increasingly polarized, leaving little room for moderate Catalanism that seeks to defend regional identity through dialogue and cooperation within Spain.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catalan-politics-faces-polarization-between-independence-and-unity

### 2026-08-28: Catalan independence movement faces political division

The Catalan independence movement faces significant challenges due to political fragmentation and a lack of unified leadership following the October 1 referendum.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/catalan-independence-movement-faces-political-division

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Cite as: Catalan political polarization and division. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/catalan-political-polarization-and-division