Euskadi Ta Askatasuna : - Reasons for Existence. A Case Study in the Basque Country

Abstract: In this case study I explore why the conflict of the Basque country which involves Euskadi Ta Askatasuna (ETA) persists. The purpose is to gain an understanding of the existence of ETA. Working somewhat  as an ethnographer the method has been to observe Basque society and through semi- structured interviews gain an understanding of ETAs existence. As exemplified with the hermeneutic circle, this case study starts out with a preunderstanding of the reasons for the existence of ETA, a preunderstanding which alters many times during my visit to the Basque country. Keys to understanding the continued existence of ETA is that historical “injustices” are perceived to still exist in the Basque country. Perceptions which question the legitimacy of the Spanish state in the Basque country. Further the social base of ETA, as exemplified in election support for Herri Batasuna (HB), still remains rather strong despite the party‟s illegalization and finally, the perceived lack of a functioning democracy in Spain and the lack of legitimacy of the Spanish state in the Basque country are among the reasons for the continued existence of ETA.