Spain Gripped By First General Strike In 14 Years As Housing Crisis Deepens

Millions of workers across Spain went on a nationwide general strike on Wednesday, demanding government action on the country's worsening housing crisis less than three weeks before a national election that could bring the far right closer to power. The walkout, Spain's first general strike in 14 years, is expected to disrupt public transport, factories, shops and businesses across the eurozone's fourth-largest economy.

The strike witnessed early disruptions, including roadblocks involving burning tyres in Barcelona and clashes between police and picketers near Madrid's main wholesale market. Workers also set off fireworks at midnight as demonstrations began.

The country's two largest trade unions, UGT and CCOO, reported significant participation in key industries, claiming work stoppages of 90 per cent in the automotive and port sectors, 85 per cent in the meat industry, 82 per cent in waste collection and 75 per cent in energy.

The protests have brought together workers and housing activists under the slogan 'Salaries. Housing. Prices.' Average rents in Spain have nearly doubled over the past decade, putting growing pressure on household budgets. Public anger intensified following the televised eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen from her Madrid home last month. Her subsequent death turned her into a symbol of the country's housing crisis.

Activists are demanding an end to tourist apartments, action against property speculation and stronger tenant protections, including automatic lease renewals. The unions are also seeking greater government intervention in housing and a new minimum wage agreement.

The strike has acquired political significance ahead of the election called by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on October 5. His left-wing coalition hopes to regain momentum after a deadly high-speed train collision that killed 69 people overshadowed its campaign. The government will attempt on Thursday to secure parliamentary approval for two housing measures previously rejected by the lower chamber.

Meanwhile, conservative Popular Party (PP) and far-right Vox have accused unions of staging an electoral strike to help Sánchez. Political analysts warn that any violence or destruction during the protests could benefit the Right by allowing it to portray the country as being in chaos.