The nationwide walkout, backed by major unions and tenant groups, comes ahead of a snap election.
Read the storyNovember 11, 2026, 7:54 a.m. Central time.
Workers across Spain walked off the job Wednesday in a general strike over housing costs, wages and prices, with picket lines disrupting some transport and businesses ahead of the country’s November 29 snap election.
Spain’s two largest unions, UGT and CCOO, joined tenants’ organizations in backing the action. Reuters reported that participation varied by region; union leaders called the stoppage a success.
Tenants’ groups want stronger protection against evictions and rising rents. UGT and CCOO are seeking more government action on housing and a minimum-wage agreement through talks with employers, according to the Associated Press.
The strike follows weeks of housing protests. El País reports that the main unions had not jointly called a general strike since 2012; smaller unions have called other general stoppages in the years since.
Reuters reported shuttered shops and picketing, while AP described delayed transport and clashes between picketers and police near a Madrid wholesale market. Conditions differed across the country, and a reliable overall participation count was not immediately available.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the snap election after parliament rejected housing measures. Union leaders have said their demands apply to all levels of government, regardless of who wins.
October: The major unions backed the strike after housing protests and the election call. November 11, Spain time: The nationwide action began. November 29: Spain’s snap election is scheduled.
The star marks Madrid for context; the strike affected multiple locations.
Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.
Reuters via AOL · Associated Press · El País
Hero and thumbnail: conceptual editorial illustration, not a photograph.
