Spain's first general strike in 14 years is stalling factories and public transit nationwide after early roadblocks and police clashes broke out at a Madrid wholesale market. Labor groups and housing activists are seeking automatic lease renewals, a new minimum-wage pact, and immediate relief for a 750,000-home shortage estimated by the Bank of Spain. Public outrage intensified after an 87-year-old Madrid resident died following an eviction that occurred when opposition politicians blocked left-wing tenant protections. Sánchez's administration hopes the focus on social welfare will sway voters, even as the conservative Popular Party and Vox hold a potential majority in recent polling.
Key points
Labor unions and tenant activists are demanding an end to tourist rentals, automatic leas…: Labor unions and tenant activists are demanding an end to tourist rentals, automatic lease renewals, and a new minimum-wage agreement.
Right-wing opposition parties have dismissed the widespread industrial action as an elect…: Right-wing opposition parties have dismissed the widespread industrial action as an election strike designed to keep Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in office.
Recent political polling indicates the conservative Popular Party and far-right Vox could…: Recent political polling indicates the conservative Popular Party and far-right Vox could secure a combined majority in the November 29 general election.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
Spanish workers are expected to turn out in the millions on Wednesday for the country's first general strike in 14 years, as anger over soaring rents and living costs intensifies less than three weeks before a general election.
Demonstrators clashed with police at a wholesale market in Madrid in the early hours of the strike, while roadblocks were also reported in the early hours of Wednesday.
The 24-hour labor walkout is expected to disrupt public transport and flights, as well as bring some businesses, shops and factories to a standstill.
Spain's biggest unions call strike action
Housing costs are a particular source of frustration among demonstrators. Rents have almost doubled over the past decade, squeezing household budgets as many workers feel homeownership is beyond their reach.
The Bank of Spain estimates that the country faces a shortage of 750,000 homes, potentially rising to 1 million over the next two years.
Spain's two largest trade unions, CCOO and UGT, which called the strike, are calling for greater government intervention in the housing market. Housing activists demand an end to tourist rentals…
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