Housing and salaries on the street. General strike in Spain with more participation than expected by the unions

Spain experienced its first general strike in 14 years, disrupting transport and industries, with participation exceeding union expectations. The strike, called by major unions CCOO and UGT, demands wage increases and housing rights, coinciding with upcoming elections. While unions reported participation rates as high as 84%, business associations claimed only 5% adherence, labeling it a historic low. The strike led to significant transport disruptions, particularly in Catalonia, and protests resulted in road blockages and police confrontations, with over 42 arrests nationwide. The unions emphasized that the strike was planned prior to the election announcement, countering claims of political motivations from opposition parties.