Kathmandu [Nepal], November 12 – Spain witnessed its first nationwide general strike in 14 years on Wednesday as thousands of people protested against rising living costs and housing expenses.
Demonstrations took place in major cities including Madrid and Barcelona with around 120,000 people participating in the capital and more than 50,000 in Barcelona, according to estimates cited by organisers.
However, Spain’s main business association said participation was relatively low and varied across sectors. Union leaders described the turnout as significant.
Clashes broke out between protesters and police in Madrid and Barcelona. In Barcelona, masked groups set fire to rubbish containers and smashed shop windows prompting police to use tear gas. Dozens of people were arrested according to the Interior Ministry.
The strike disrupted transport and other public services, blocking major roads in both cities.
Protests over housing affordability and rising consumer prices have intensified in recent months. In Madrid, the average monthly rent for a 50-square-metre apartment reached 1,170 euros in October while Spain’s average gross monthly salary stood at around 2,460 euros.
The strike comes ahead of the November 29 parliamentary election after Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called an early vote last month following parliament’s rejection of his housing reform plan.
