A thermosetting coating composition is provided, which composition is based upon (A) an activated unsaturated group-containing compound, (B) an activated CH group-containing compound and (C) a strong basic catalyst, wherein the strong basic catalyst is blocked with a [particular] carboxylic acid which is volatile and/or undergoes decarboxylation under curing conditions. These coating compositions possess extended potlife, good curing speed, and a good balance of physical and mechanical properties making them especially well suited for a variety of coatings uses such as in paint, impregnating, sealing and bonding compositions.