BRUSSELS — Separatist politicians in Catalonia have been pushing for independence from Spain. After three months of political turmoil, new Catalan elections are scheduled for Dec. 21.

The European Union has sided wholly with the Madrid government, which rejects Catalan independence. One key reason: Many other regions in Europe have their own nationalist movements, which, if successful, could destabilize member nations in the bloc.

How many movements are there?

According to the European Union, its 28 member states contain 276 separate regions with varying political structures and categories, including states, countries, regions and communities. Some, like Catalonia and Scotland, have their own representative offices in Brussels. And the European Parliament has a coalition of regional parties, the European Free Alliance, that occupies 2 percent of the seats.

Of the 276 regions, some are pressing for independence or much greater autonomy.

Which are the most prominent?

CATALONIA, Spain

Catalonia has its own history, culture and language, as do some other parts of Spain.