The common thread linking separatist movements in Catalonia, Lombardy and Veneto is rich regions objecting to subsidising poorer parts of their respective countries. Isn’t there a danger that support for national self-determination swamps any notion of solidarity with less successful regions? However, one aspect of the Catalan referendum that has received little comment in the UK, or on the BBC, is the second part of the question on their ballot paper – the demand for a republic. Friends of Catalonia has been formed to help defend Catalan democracy and civil rights. Antonio Cazorla-SánchezOttawa, Ontario, Canada• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters

Source: The Guardian October 29, 2017 19:52 UTC