Spain's Immigration Power Transfer to Catalonia Sparks Controversy and Political Tensions
In a move that has ignited fierce debate and opposition, the Spanish government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has agreed to transfer control over immigration and border management to the Catalan regional government. This landmark deal, announced on March 3, 2025, is part of a broader agreement between Sánchez's Socialist Party (PSOE) and the pro-independence group Junts per Catalunya.
The Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement, Catalonia's regional police force, the Mossos d'Esquadra, will assume authority over airports, ports, and other critical infrastructure, working in coordination with Spain's national armed forces. The Catalan government will also take on responsibilities for migration policy, including the processing and enforcement of deportations, the administration of Foreign Internment Centers (CIE), and the management of residence and work permits[2][4].
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