English
Spain held its first general strike in 14 years on Wednesday, as workers across the country took to the streets to protest a deepening housing crisis and rising cost of living. Despite stormy weather in many regions, large crowds marched and set up picket lines throughout the day.
A Crisis With a Human Face
The strike carries strong symbolic weight. Earlier this year, 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal died in Madrid following her eviction, and her case became a rallying point for housing activists nationwide. The crisis has grown severe enough to trigger a snap general election, scheduled for November 29.
Stay connected to every major update — subscribe and follow us on the PhoenixQ website and across our social media platforms.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who leads a left-wing government, tried to pass legislation to protect renters. However, opposition parties blocked the bill in parliament. Unable to secure enough support, Sanchez called the early vote in an attempt to strengthen his position.
Alicia del Rio, spokesperson for the Madrid Tenants’ Union, made clear that protesters would not back down. “We won’t stop until we transform this country’s housing model from top to bottom so that houses are for living instead of being at the service of the landlord minority,” she said.
The Scale of Spain’s Housing Shortage
Spain currently faces a deficit of around 750,000 homes. According to the country’s central bank, that figure could exceed one million by 2028. As homeownership becomes increasingly out of reach, more people are renting instead.
The financial pressure on younger residents is especially acute. Spain’s youth council reports that average monthly rent now stands at €1,176, or roughly $1,315. That figure equals approximately 99% of the average young person’s salary, leaving little room for other expenses.
Clashes and Broader Unrest
Most of Wednesday’s protests proceeded peacefully. However, strikers outside Madrid’s Mercamadrid wholesale market reported that police fired pepper spray into the crowd. At least 13 people sought medical attention as a result.
The general strike also follows a separate wave of industrial action. A day earlier, rail workers launched their own strike in response to two major deadly train crashes this year. Deteriorating infrastructure has therefore joined housing as a key issue heading into the November elections.
Together, the strikes reflect growing public frustration with conditions in Spain. The outcome of the November 29 vote will likely determine whether the government can finally deliver meaningful reform on housing and public safety.
