Catalonia Pivots From Independence to Exhibition

Catalonia's push for independence entered a complex new phase Oct. 14 when regional President Artur Mas announced that the Nov. 9 independence referendum would be replaced by a non-binding consultation. According to Mas, there will be "a preliminary vote" Nov. 9, before the definitive vote is held at some point in the future.

The move is an about-face for Mas, who promised the Catalan public the opportunity to determine its own future but is reluctant to move forward with the referendum now that it has been suspended by the Spanish Constitutional Court and will probably be declared illegal. Though Catalonia's push for independence has been delayed by Mas' politicking, the process continues, ensuring future conflict within Catalonia's political elite and between the region and Madrid.