Less than three weeks to elections: general strike in Spain - disruptions and massive protests across the country

Spain has entered its first general strike in 14 years, with millions of workers striking in protest over the housing crisis and cost of living. The strike is disrupting transportation, schools, and hospitals, while massive protests are taking place in Madrid and Barcelona. The strike comes less than three weeks before the general elections.

Spain entered its first general strike in 14 years on Wednesday, with millions of workers stopping work in protest over the housing crisis and cost of living. The strike is expected to disrupt public transportation, schools, hospitals, factories, and businesses across the country. Massive protests are planned in Madrid and Barcelona, with early hours seeing clashes with police and road blockades. The UGT and CCOO workers' unions reported widespread compliance, with strike rates of 90% in the automotive industry and ports, 85% in the meat industry, 82% in waste collection services, and 75% in the energy sector. The strike takes place less than three weeks before the general elections on November 29, after Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called early elections due to failure to pass emergency housing measures. The article notes the eviction of 87-year-old Marikerman Abascal from her home in Madrid in September, whose death days later became a symbol of the protest. Protesters demand restrictions on renting apartments to tourists, a fight against speculation, and protection for tenants. The political analysis presents the conflicting interests of the government and opposition, with the People's Party calling the strike an "electoral strike."

Less than three weeks to elections: general strike in Spain - disruptions and massive protests across the country