Violent clashes erupted between protesters and riot police in Madrid on Wednesday as thousands took to the streets during Spain’s first nationwide general strike in 14 years, demanding affordable housing, higher wages and relief from soaring living costs.
Footage shows protesters marching towards police, officers striking demonstrators and using pepper spray. Police are also seen arresting protesters in the streets as tear gas is thrown. Demonstrators march with banners and placards reading ‘We are not just resources. We are people’ and ‘Decent and adequate housing’.
Police reportedly arrested 20 people across Madrid during the 24-hour strike, following confrontations at several locations, including the city’s main wholesale market, Mercamadrid, and the Gran Via shopping district.
Spain’s two largest trade unions, UGT and CCOO, joined tenants’ associations and other labour organisations in calling for the nationwide walkout. Protesters demanded rent controls, more public housing and better wages as soaring property prices continued to squeeze households.
The strike disrupted transport and businesses across Spain, less than three weeks before the country’s November 29 snap general election.
It was Spain’s first nationwide general strike since 2012, when workers protested against austerity measures during the eurozone debt crisis.
Source: Viory
