Protesters set fires, clash with police during Spain's general strike: Watch
Tens of thousands of protesters participated in a nationwide general strike in Spain to demand action on the housing affordability crisis and rising living costs. The demonstrations, which saw clashes with police in Barcelona, mark the first general strike in the country since 2012.
Why it matters
The strike highlights growing social unrest in Europe over economic inequality and housing, potentially impacting the upcoming parliamentary elections in Spain.
Clashes broke out between masked protesters and police in Barcelona on Wednesday as tens of thousands of people took part in Spain's first general strike in 14 years, called by the country's major trade unions over the housing affordability crisis and rising cost of living.Around 120,000 people joined demonstrations in Madrid and more than 50,000 gathered in Barcelona, where some protesters set fire to rubbish bins, smashed shop windows and clashed with police. Officers fired tear gas to disperse the crowds, while transport and other public services across the country faced significant disruption.The disturbances in Barcelona continued into the evening, with a heavy police presence in the city centre. Some clashes took place along Passeig de Gràcia, near the iconic Plaça de Catalunya. Local media reported that protesters fired fireworks at police and looted shops, including a Lego store.
Headlinne story · 6 newsrooms
Millions of Spanish Workers Strike Over Soaring Housing Costs Ahead of Election
What every outlet reported, where they differ, and how each framed it →
Also covering this story
6 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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