A new far-right political force, Alianca Catalana (Catalan Alliance), is rapidly reshaping the political landscape in Catalonia, with anti-Muslim and anti-migration sentiment now driving voter interest in the wealthy Spanish region. The party, which frames Islam and immigration as societal threats, has seen a significant surge in popularity, positioning itself as a major contender ahead of upcoming elections.

Catalonia, home to Spain's largest Muslim population, is witnessing a political shift where secessionist ideals, prominent after the failed independence bid in 2017, have been largely supplanted by concerns over migration. This change is occurring against a backdrop of similar far-right successes across Europe, including in Germany, Italy, and France, indicating a broader trend.

The Catalan Alliance is predicted to become the second-largest political force in Catalonia, trailing only the Socialists, according to recent polls. This rise has generated significant concern among the region's Muslim community, who fear a potential backlash in a country historically perceived as welcoming.

Soukayna El Abdi, president of the Young Moroccans of Ripoll, expressed surprise at the party's growth, stating that "most people come to integrate, to work and live among others." She characterized the Catalan Alliance's platform as based on "unfounded hate" and the dissemination of "things about our community which are not true."

Eduard Lopez, a businessman from Molins de Rei, voiced support for the Catalan Alliance, citing concerns about the number of migrants and viewing Islam as a threat. He also expressed disillusionment with traditional independence parties, suggesting they have failed to deliver on their promises.

Data from the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE) indicates that nearly a fifth of Spain's population of approximately 50 million is foreign-born, with Colombians, Venezuelans, and Moroccans forming the largest immigrant groups. The Catalan Alliance originated in Ripoll, a town with a history linked to a 2017 attack in Barcelona that claimed 16 lives and was attributed to an ISIL cell.

Despite the party's growing influence, some observers suggest that significant policy changes may not materialize immediately. Silvia Orriols, the leader of Catalan Alliance and the mayor of Ripoll, has been a vocal proponent of the party's agenda, which includes stricter migration controls and a critical stance on Islam's integration into Catalan society.

The broader political context in Spain includes an upcoming snap election in November, where polls indicate gains for the conservative People's Party and the far-right Vox. The rise of Catalan Alliance further signals a notable shift towards the right within the eurozone's fourth-largest economy, impacting the dynamics of both regional and national politics.