Catalonia poll unrest

THE world could have a new country with an independence referendum set to be held in Spain’s Catalonia region on Sunday.

The wealthy area that is home to 5.5 million eligible voters and includes Barcelona plans to hold a vote on whether it should secede from the rest of the country.

If successful, draft plans include a declaration of independence within 48 hours.

But Spanish authorities have declared the vote illegal, and have sent police from around the country to prevent people from voting.