Spain’s first general strike in 14 years hits transit, factories
Why it matters: The walkout puts housing at the center of a snap election after rents surged and evictions fueled national anger.
Workers across Spain mounted the country’s first general strike in 14 years on Wednesday, snarling public transport, idling factories and disrupting schools in a nationwide protest over housing costs. The two biggest unions, UGT and CCOO, reported early participation of 90% in ports and auto plants, 85% in meat processing, 82% in waste collection and 75% in energy. In Barcelona, transit faced major delays, while Madrid bus service was hit by rain and walkouts. The strike followed weeks of protests after the eviction and death of an 87-year-old Madrid resident known as Maricarmen. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called a Nov. 29 election after lawmakers rejected decrees meant to curb evictions and ease rent pressures.