Thousands took to the streets for affordable housing and higher wages in Spain

In Spain's major cities, thousands protested despite heavy rain during a one-day national strike, demanding affordable housing, higher wages, and improved public services. Barcelona saw participation estimates ranging from 40,000 by police to 400,000 by organizers, with demonstrators chanting slogans and carrying banners. Incidents of vandalism occurred, including broken shop windows and looting. In Madrid, around 120,000 joined the protests, leading to 52 arrests. While major unions deemed the strike successful, employer associations criticized low worker participation. The strike significantly disrupted transportation, canceling many train services and leaving residents without public transport for hours in Catalonia.