Catalonia’s new far right: How anti-Muslim sentiment is reshaping politics

The rise of the far-right Catalan Alliance is causing significant concern among the Muslim community in Spain ahead of the upcoming snap election. This new political force has shifted the focus from independence to anti-migration and anti-Muslim sentiments, capitalizing on broader trends across Europe. With predictions of becoming the second largest political party in Catalonia, the Catalan Alliance's rhetoric has alarmed many, particularly given the region's substantial Muslim population.

Local leaders and community members express fears of increased discrimination and hostility, recalling the aftermath of the 2017 Barcelona attack that has fueled anti-Muslim sentiments. The party's leader, Silvia Orriols, has openly criticized immigration and Islam, framing them as threats to Catalonia's identity and security. This shift in political dynamics reflects a broader trend of rising far-right movements in Europe, raising concerns about the future for Muslim communities in Spain.

As the election approaches, the implications of the Catalan Alliance's rise could reshape the political landscape in Catalonia, affecting not only governance but also the social fabric of the region. The Muslim community, which constitutes a significant portion of the population, is particularly vulnerable to the fallout from this political shift, as fears of backlash and discrimination grow among its members.