Spain Faces First General Strike in 14 Years Over Housing Crisis

Spain has launched a 24-hour general strike that has brought strategic sectors of the eurozone's fourth-largest economy to a standstill. The mobilization comes less than three weeks before the national elections scheduled for November 29.

Labor unions UGT and CCOO reported high participation in areas such as the automotive and port sectors. Public transportation faced severe disruptions and many companies reduced or completely halted their production activities.

The movement demands urgent government action regarding the housing crisis affecting the country. The average cost of rent in Spain has nearly doubled over the last decade and has placed severe pressure on household budgets.

Political tension rose following the forced eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid who passed away shortly after. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called for snap elections after the government failed to pass a housing package in parliament.

Business groups and opposition parties criticized the strike as an electoral maneuver. The climate of political uncertainty and social instability defines the current landscape before the decisive vote.