Better off on their own? Economic aspects of regional autonomy and independence movements in Europe

With the independence referendum in Scotland and unofficial polls in Catalonia and Veneto, separatist aspirations in Europe were given a boost in 2015. In regions seeking greater self-determination or even full secession, not only emotional and cultural aspects play a role but also concrete financial motives.

Nearly all the regions seeking greater autonomy are among the wealthiest in their respective countries and far outstrip the national average in terms of per capita income. Moreover, some of them are substantial net contributors in regional redistribution systems.