Referendum is a difficult thing when the remaining part of the country or region have something to lose.

Catalonia is one of Spain's wealthiest and most productive regions and has a distinct history dating back almost 1,000 years.
At the northeastern region of Spain is home to 7.5 million citizens and has its own devolved government.
It has its own language, cultural traditions and the country's second biggest city, Barcelona.

Spain will lose revenue gotten from Catalonia. Do you know how much Spain make from just soccer?

The Referendum might lead to riot if it is not properly managed.