This thesis investigates whether Catalonia has a moral right to unilateral secession. The research question focuses on the legitimacy of Catalonia’s unilateral secession from Spain, analyzing it...Show moreThis thesis investigates whether Catalonia has a moral right to unilateral secession. The research question focuses on the legitimacy of Catalonia’s unilateral secession from Spain, analyzing it through the lenses of three main secession theories: remedial rights, plebiscitary rights, and ascriptive rights. The study critically evaluates the arguments of economic disadvantage, democratic will, and national identity as justifications for secession. The analysis finds that while Catalonia faces economic disadvantages, these do not meet the stringent criteria of severe injustices required for remedial secession. The plebiscitary theory, which emphasizes democratic will, is challenged by Catalonia’s divided public opinion, which consistently shows less than a clear majority in favor of independence. Finally, the ascriptive rights theory, which supports secession based on distinct national identity, provides the strongest moral foundation for Catalonia’s case, but it faces significant practical challenges, including potential international instability and internal divisions within Catalonia. The findings suggest that while Catalonia’s aspiration for independence has a moral basis under the ascriptive theory, the lack of severe injustices and insufficient stable majority support complicates the justification for unilateral secession.Show less