Toni Comín walks the halls of the European Parliament in Brussels as an elected Member of the European Parliament (MEP) in name only. Despite being voted into office, the Catalan politician is currently unable to fully perform the duties of an MEP, a situation stemming from a complex legal battle with Spain following the 2017 Catalan independence referendum. This unusual case highlights the ongoing tensions between Catalan separatism and the Spanish government.
Comín’s predicament began in October 2017, when he served as the Health Minister of Catalonia during a period of intense political upheaval. The regional government attempted to secede from Spain, culminating in a disputed referendum deemed illegal by Madrid. Following a declaration of independence and the subsequent application of emergency powers by Spain, Comín fled to Belgium with then-Catalan President Carles Puigdemont to avoid arrest.
The Paradox of an MEP Without a Mandate
Though wanted in Spain on charges of rebellion, sedition, and misuse of public funds, Comín and Puigdemont were both elected to the European Parliament in 2019 as candidates for Junts per Catalunya (Together for Catalonia). However, their ability to take their seats was initially blocked by Spanish requirements for an oath to be taken in person within Spain – a clear impossibility given the outstanding arrest warrants. A 2020 ruling by the European Court of Justice allowed them to assume their positions, but the issue resurfaced after the 2024 elections.
According to Comín, a recent ruling has clarified that he *is* an MEP, but the European Parliament must respect Spain’s decision regarding the exercise of his mandate. “It is the difference between being an MEP and doing the MEP’s job,” he told Euronews. This results in the Parliament currently operating with 719 members instead of the expected 720, as Comín cannot be replaced while his status remains unresolved.
Currently, Comín spends approximately twice a month in Brussels, maintaining connections with colleagues. He reports having positive relationships with MEPs from the Greens/EFA, the Left, and Renew Europe groups. The remainder of his time is dedicated to political activity and writing a memoir, a 700-page account of his experiences.
Catalan Independence and Political Maneuvering
Throughout his eight years in self-imposed exile, Comín has remained a key figure in the Catalan independence movement, working closely with Puigdemont. Junts per Catalunya, despite currently being in opposition in the Catalan Parliament, plays a crucial role in supporting Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government by abstaining from no-confidence votes.
Sánchez’s socialist-led government has pursued a policy of reconciliation with Catalan pro-independence forces, offering support in exchange for an amnesty law covering those involved in the events of October 2017. However, the application of this amnesty, specifically regarding the charge of misuse of public funds, is currently being challenged by the Spanish Supreme Court, leading to further legal appeals.
Political meetings for Junts per Catalunya are regularly held in Belgium, with high-ranking party members traveling from Barcelona to meet with Puigdemont in Waterloo. Comín describes his relationship with Puigdemont as a deep friendship forged through shared experiences, stating they are “brothers of exile.”
Challenges and Accusations
The path hasn’t been without obstacles. In January, Comín faced accusations of sexual and psychological harassment from a parliamentary assistant, leading to a formal complaint to the Parliament. Comín has vehemently denied the allegations, claiming they are politically motivated. The investigation is currently suspended pending a resolution to his status as an MEP.
Looking Ahead for the Catalan MEP
While the ultimate goal remains Catalan independence, Comín’s immediate focus is on returning to Spain. A comprehensive amnesty for Catalan separatist leaders would allow them to return without fear of arrest, potentially paving the way for Puigdemont to contest regional elections and for Comín to finally be sworn in as a fully functioning MEP. He estimates a 90% chance of achieving this before the end of his current mandate. He expresses a longing to resume the work of policy drafting and advocacy, such as his previous efforts to lift vaccine patents. More personally, he misses his family and the freedom of life in Catalonia.
The situation surrounding Toni Comín remains a significant point of contention in Spanish-Catalan relations. Observers will be watching closely for developments in the legal challenges to the amnesty law and the potential for a resolution that allows Comín and other exiled Catalan politicians to return home and fully participate in the political process.
