Millions of Spanish Workers Strike Over Housing Crisis

Housing shortfall and rising costs fuel public anger

Widespread public anger regarding the national housing crisis drove the general strike. The Bank of Spain reports a current shortfall of approximately 750,000 homes, a figure projected to exceed 1 million by 2028.

Between 2015 and 2025, rents in Spain increased by 87% while wages grew by approximately 30%, according to El País.

The youth emancipation rate has dropped to a record low of 14.5%. The average age for a person to move out of their parents’ home is 30.2 years, according to the Youth Council of Spain.

Strike causes transport halts and clashes with police

Strike participation was most concentrated in coastal areas, ports, and the automotive sector, according to the UGT and CCOO. Production halted at the Seat plant in Martorell, and the Volkswagen factory in Navarre saw majority support for the action.

Madrid metro traffic was 42% lower through 10 a.m. Wednesday compared to the same period the previous Wednesday.

Clashes broke out during the protests, resulting in scores of arrests. Police reported at least 75 arrests and 1,044 incidents linked to the strike. CCOO Madrid announced plans to file a criminal complaint against police for a "disproportionate" response involving batons and pepper spray that allegedly injured 20 people.

Sánchez administration supports strike as opposition calls it political

The Sánchez administration officially supported the general strike. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated on X that the action "is not against anyone" and argued that public institutions must address the country's housing needs.

Opposition politicians criticized the strike as a political tool meant to benefit the Sánchez government in the upcoming election. Popular Party secretary-general Miguel Tellado and Vox leader Santiago Abascal both voiced this criticism.

Government housing policies and legislative history

The minority government passed a 2023 housing law that permitted rent controls in areas with high housing pressure.

Opposition lawmakers in early October rejected housing decrees proposed by the Sánchez administration that were intended to strengthen tenants' rights and limit rent costs.

Snap election and national challenges ahead of November 29 vote

Congress’s Permanent Deputation will vote on revised housing decrees today, Thursday, November 12, 2026. This vote occurs weeks before the national election scheduled for November 29. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the snap election following the September eviction and subsequent death of 87-year-old tenant Maricarmen Abascal.

Sánchez faces multiple challenges as he seeks reelection in November 2026. Corruption cases involving individuals close to his government are impacting his campaign.

A train crash in Urda on October 28, 2026, resulted in 69 deaths. Polls published on November 9, 2026, show the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party trailing the People’s Party. These projections indicate the People’s Party and Vox could secure a majority government together.