Protesters clash with police during Spain's first general strike in 14 years
Tens of thousands of people participated in nationwide demonstrations over housing affordability and the rising cost of living.
Masked protesters clashed with police in Barcelona on Wednesday as tens of thousands of people joined Spain's first general strike in 14 years, according to the Times of India.
The strike was called by major trade unions over the rising cost of living and the housing affordability crisis. The unions, including the UGT and CCOO, said approximately four million workers participated in the nationwide action.
In Madrid, around 120,000 people joined demonstrations, while more than 50,000 gathered in Barcelona. In Barcelona, some protesters set fire to rubbish bins, smashed shop windows, and looted shops including a Lego store. Local media reported that protesters fired fireworks at police and attempted to enter an Apple Store.
Police used tear gas to disperse crowds in Barcelona, where disturbances continued into the evening near Passeig de Gràcia and Plaça de Catalunya. The strike caused significant disruption to transport and other public services across the country.
UGT chief Pepe Álvarez described the strike as a success, while CCOO leader Unai Sordo said the turnout was "very significant". Participation was stronger in coastal regions where housing pressures are acute.
The walkout occurs less than three weeks before parliamentary elections scheduled for November 29. Spain faces a housing deficit of around 750,000 homes, which the central bank projects could exceed one million by 2028.