Spain Sees First General Strike in 14 Years Over Housing Crisis Ahead of Snap Election

Millions of workers and activists across Spain participated in a nationwide general strike to protest surging housing costs and rents. The action, backed by major labour unions and tenant organizations, disrupted industry and transport ahead of a snap general election called for November 29.

• Trade unions and housing advocacy groups led Spain's first general strike in 14 years under the motto 'Salaries. Housing. Prices.' to demand caps on rents and stronger tenant protections.· 3 sources
• Turnout was highest in manufacturing, ports, and transit, while business associations reported low overall participation and described the walkout as a failure.· 3 sources
• Protests mobilized tens of thousands of people in Madrid and Barcelona despite severe weather alerts, with some post-march clashes leading to arrests and property damage.· 3 sources
• The walkout was fueled by public outrage over housing costs after the eviction and subsequent death of 87-year-old Madrid resident Maricarmen Abascal.· 3 sources
• The demonstrations occurred three weeks before a national snap election called by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez following the parliamentary defeat of government housing decrees.· 3 sources