Spain’s first general strike in 14 years begins
Summary
Workers across Spain began a 24-hour general strike to demand action on the housing crisis, disrupting transport and businesses. The strike comes less than three weeks before a November 29 snap election, after the government failed to pass proposed housing measures.Key Facts
- The walkout began at midnight on Wednesday and is Spain’s first general strike in 14 years.
- Unions UGT and CCOO reported major work stoppages in the early hours, including 90 percent participation in the automotive and port sectors.
- Minor incidents included burning-tyre roadblocks in Barcelona and scuffles near Madrid’s main wholesale market.
- Spain’s average rent has almost doubled over the past 10 years, according to the article.
- Housing activists called for the strike after the September eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, who died a few days later.
- Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called a snap election for November 29 after parliament rejected his government’s housing measures.
- Business groups, the conservative Popular Party and far-right Vox criticized or opposed the strike.
- In October, an average 50-square-metre apartment in Madrid rented for 1,170 euros a month, nearly half the average gross monthly salary of 2,460 euros.
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