These European regions might follow Scotland's lead and try to win independence from their home countries:
Italy's Veneto: In March, 89 percent of Venetians voted for independence in an online petition that led to the creation of a party called "Veneto Si." Its aim is to conduct a formal and binding referendum. Venetians cite economic reasons: The north of Italy produces two-thirds of Italy's gross domestic product.
Spain's Catalonia: The region in the northeast of Spain gained autonomy in 1977, but it has wanted full independence ever since. Catalonia has its own language and identity. In November, Catalonia plans a referendum on independence, but Madrid has said that the vote would violate Spain's constitution.
Denmark's Faeroe Islands: The 550-square-mile islands belong to Denmark and are self-governed in many respects. The idea of separating completely from Denmark is still popular among the inhabitants.
France's Corsica: This island in the Mediterranean Sea has belonged to France since 1769. Despite separatist tendencies, a referendum on more autonomy failed in 2003.
Germany's Bavaria: It is hard to imagine Germany without Bavaria, but some residents of the region wish for greater autonomy. The federal state already holds a special status and is the only one with a regional party in the German national parliament. Surveys show that a minority of Bavarians in 2009 thought their state would be better off being independent.
Washington Post
