Millions of Spanish workers participated in a nationwide 24-hour general strike on Wednesday, marking the country's first general strike in 14 years. The walkout, called by the nation's two largest unions and tenants' associations, led to widespread shutdowns of businesses, factories, and public transportation across the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. Some schools and universities also closed or operated at minimal capacity.
The strike, centered on the slogan Salaries. Housing. Prices., was driven by a deepening housing affordability crisis, soaring rents, and the rising cost of living. Protesters demanded government action to address stagnant wages and the housing crunch. Housing activists specifically called for the protection of renters and the elimination of tourist apartments.
Tens of thousands of people marched through major cities despite stormy weather. In Madrid, demonstrators carried placards shaped like houses and chanted, "We have no home." While many events remained peaceful, unrest broke out in Barcelona, where protesters smashed storefronts, set off small bonfires, and launched fireworks towards police.
These disruptions come less than three weeks before a snap general election scheduled for November 29. The housing crisis and purchasing power have become central issues of the political debate, occurring at a time when there are concerns that the far right could be catapulted into power.