Stalled Amnesty: Spanish Law for Separatists Faces Legal Hurdles

Spain's recently passed amnesty law aimed at Catalan separatists involved in the 2017 independence bid has hit a roadblock. While approved by parliament in late May, the law is yet to be applied due to ongoing legal challenges.

This has left hundreds of individuals, including former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont, in limbo. The amnesty law, expected to benefit around 400 people, promises to pardon those charged or facing charges related to the separatist movement between 2011 and 2023 (with exceptions for violent crimes).

The delay is causing frustration among Catalan separatists who view it as an unnecessary hurdle. The law empowers judges to apply the amnesty within two months of its approval, but legal wrangling is postponing its implementation.

This wait-and-see approach stems from appeals against the law being filed in higher courts. The process of resolving these appeals could take years, further extending the uncertainty for those impacted.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who championed the amnesty law as a way to ease tensions with Catalonia, faces criticism for the delays. The situation highlights the complexities surrounding the divisive issue of Catalan independence.