Regional borders within Spain to remain shut over Easter

Regional borders within Spain will most likely remain shut over Easter following an agreement to keep mobility restrictions in place during the traditionally busy holiday.

The decision, supported by Spain’s health ministry and all regional governments except Madrid's, was announced on Thursday afternoon and will be officially ratified next Wednesday.

Aiming to distance themselves from past efforts to "save the Christmas season", which eventually led to a spike in coronavirus infections and the pandemic’s ravaging third wave, authorities will launch a campaign urging people to remain alert and avoid close contacts under the motto ‘We don’t save weeks, we save lives.’

On a holiday when it is customary to see large crowds following Easter processions, authorities have announced they will ban mass gatherings to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Social gatherings limited to four people

Regional governments have agreed to limiting social gatherings to four people both in public and in private spaces, significantly hardening current restrictions that allow for six-people groups.

In Catalonia, where the maximum number of people allowed to gather is six people, authorities have said they reject bringing the number down. However, it is not clear they can resist implementing the measure.

Catalonia eases some measures

Catalan authorities confirmed on Thursday that some Covid-19 restrictions will be eased to help sectors and population groups most affected by the pandemic and the measures to contain it.

From next Monday, bars and restaurants will be allowed to open from 7 am to 5 pm. In-person classes will resume at universities with 30% capacity limits. Leisure activities for teenagers and people over 60 years old will resume too.