Catalan Voices: The Fight for Linguistic Recognition in the European Parliament

Introduction

Recently, the Spanish Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, has once again appealed to the European Parliament to allow the use of Catalan and other co-official languages in parliamentary proceedings. This matter, which Albares deems a priority for Spain, highlights the ongoing struggle for linguistic recognition within European institutions.

The Context of Albares' Request

Historical Background

This is the third time that Albares has made such a request to Roberta Metsola, the President of the European Parliament. Despite previously sending letters in March this year and even earlier, there has been no tangible progress. This persistent attempt underscores the significance that Spain attributes to the issue.

Significance for Spain

In his letter, Albares emphasized that the recognition of Catalan, Basque, and Galician is not merely administrative but integral to Spain’s constitutional and political identity. Over 20 million citizens reside in areas where these languages are officially recognized, making their representation in the European Parliament essential.

Current Legislative Context

Currently, Catalan, Basque, and Galician are deemed working languages in Spain’s national Congress and Senate. Additionally, there are administrative agreements ensuring their use in certain EU institutions. However, achieving the same status within the European Parliament remains a challenge.

Challenges and Path Forward

Procedural Hurdles

For the issue to be discussed, President Metsola needs to include it in the Bureau’s agenda. Subsequently, a majority of the fourteen vice-presidents (seven votes) must support it. The reorganization of the Bureau, which now includes five social democrat representatives, could potentially affect the outcome.

Implications of Potential Approval

Even if the Bureau votes in favor, using Catalan in the European Parliament does not equate to official EU recognition. For full official status, the European Council would have to approve unanimously, a feat that remains elusive as demonstrated by the stalled attempt in March.

Recent Developments

The beginning of a new legislative term presents an opportune moment for Albares. He has sought a personal discussion with Metsola to push this agenda forward, leveraging the timing to create momentum for this cause.

Support and Criticism

The Catalan Government's Stance

The Generalitat, Catalonia's government, welcomed Albares' request warmly, affirming it as a step in the right direction. Officials from the Department of European Union and Foreign Action confirmed their alignment with this priority, noting the earnest commitment of Pedro Sánchez's government.

Collaborative Efforts

Both Spanish and Catalan administrations, governed by the socialist parties, have pledged to work together to achieve this goal. This cooperation underscores a unified approach despite regional and political complexities within Spain.

EU Institutional Feedback

Simultaneously, the Council of Europe has raised concerns about Spain’s adherence to the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. The Council criticized a recent ruling mandating that 25% of classes in Catalonia be conducted in Spanish, calling it "very concerning". This timing, coinciding with Albares' push, underscores the multifaceted nature of language politics in Spain.

Lingering Issues

The Council's report particularly highlighted the declining use of Catalan in secondary schools, limited judicial usage, and restricted audiovisual content availability. These issues reflect broader systemic challenges in preserving regional languages within national and EU frameworks.

Final Thoughts

The persistence of José Manuel Albares in advocating for the use of Catalan and other co-official languages in the European Parliament signifies a broader struggle for linguistic equity in European institutions. While procedural and political challenges remain, the reinforced commitment from both Spanish and Catalan administrations highlights a collective will to ensure these languages receive the recognition they deserve.

Future articles may delve into the implications of such linguistic recognition on regional identity and politics in Spain, as well as comparative analyses with other multilingual nations within the EU.

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