Millions of workers across Spain have taken part in the country’s first nationwide general strike in 14 years, protesting against rising housing costs and declining purchasing power. The action took place on November 11, less than three weeks before the country’s snap general election scheduled for November 29. Workers joined demonstrations, organised picket lines and disrupted transport in several major cities. The protests highlighted the growing difficulty many households face in paying rent, managing daily expenses and maintaining a reasonable standard of living despite Spain’s wider economic growth.
The two largest trade unions, CCOO and UGT, described participation as massive, although the level of involvement varied between regions and industries. Employers’ organisations gave a very different assessment, calling the strike unsuccessful and reporting lower participation in several sectors. Demonstrations and roadblocks affected Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia, while some public transport services were disrupted. At least 42 people were arrested in connection with incidents during the protests, according to the report. The action was unusual because it was not directed at one company or a single government policy. Instead, it focused on the wider problem of living conditions and access to affordable homes.
Housing has become one of the most important issues in Spain’s political debate. Average salaries have risen since 2018, but prices have increased at a faster rate, leaving many families with less money available after paying for basic needs. Rents have climbed by 22.9 percent over the past decade, and nearly three million tenants now spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing. Some young adults have returned to live with their parents because they cannot afford independent accommodation. The strike has therefore become a public expression of frustration over a problem affecting workers, students, families and retirees across the country.
