Spain holds first nationwide strike since 2012 over housing
Unions say around four million workers joined Spain's first general strike since 2012 on Wednesday, with more than 3 million per later union figures. Police arrested 115 people during the walkout, which was led by UGT and CCOO and tenants' groups. Protests in Barcelona and Madrid involved clashes, roadblocks and burning furniture, while schools and public transport were halted. The action, triggered by an 87-year-old tenant's eviction, is set to run three weeks ahead of a snap general election on 29 Nov.
Key facts
- Sumar demanded the resignation of Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska over the police response.
- Amnesty International documented excessive use of batons and pepper spray against peaceful protesters.
- Riot police used foam bullets, tear gas and pepper spray at Madrid's Plaza de España.
- Shops including Primark, H&M and Pull & Bear closed on Madrid's Gran Via amid heavy police presence.
- Hundreds of thousands of workers from transport, energy, waste and meat sectors are participating.
Summarised with AI from 5 sources · Updated 13:41Read our AI policy
Why it matters
The strike spotlights Spain's housing shortage and labour tensions ahead of a national vote on 29 Nov.
What changed
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First published from Tagesschau, The Hindu, The Straits Times, DW and El País English