Spain’s Socialist Government-Backed General Strike Ends in Riots
Left-wing unions halted work over housing costs 18 days before a snap vote. The conservative opposition calls the walkout an ‘electoral strike.’
TL;DR
- Spain experienced its first general strike in 14 years on November 11.
- The strike was called by left-wing unions with support from Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s Socialist government.
- Riots occurred in Madrid and Barcelona.
- Protesters blocked highways and industrial areas nationwide.
- Public transport operated on reduced schedules.
- Thousands marched in major cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia, and Zaragoza.
- The strike, supported by CCOO and UGT unions and tenants groups, focused on wages and rising housing costs.
- Conservative politicians criticized the strike as an attempt to sway votes before a snap general election.