Spain was engulfed by a 24-hour general strike, with millions of citizens protesting against rising rents, housing prices and difficulties in securing affordable accommodation. According to the Confederation of Tenants’ Associations, around 4 million people took part in the protests by midday, while organizers predicted the number would exceed 5 million. The figures have not been independently confirmed.
The strike, backed by the main unions CCOO and UGT, caused disruption in industry, transport, education and logistics. In several cities, including Barcelona and Madrid, the protests were accompanied by road blockades and clashes with police. Authorities reported more than 40 arrests.
Protesters demanded lower living costs, higher wages and measures against speculation in the real estate market and the spread of tourist rentals. Discontent has grown following the sharp rise in rents and housing prices. According to figures cited by organizers, rents have increased by about 80% over a decade, while Spain faces a shortage of around 750,000 homes.
The housing crisis has also become one of the main issues in the country’s political debate, on the eve of the early elections of 29 November.