Spain’s economic performance is contrasting with growing social tensions. The country is set to hold its first General strike in 14 years on November 11, just under three weeks before early legislative elections scheduled for November 29.
The two largest trade unions, the Workers’ Commissions (CCOO) and the General Workers’ Union, are calling for wage increases as access to housing becomes one of the main issues in the election campaign. The mobilization highlights the gap between the country’s macroeconomic results and the financial situation experienced by part of the population.
Economic growth in Spain is estimated at 2.6% in 2026, among the strongest performances in the European Union. Employment has reached historic levels, while Unemployment—long one of the country’s main economic problems—fell below 10% in January for the first time since 2008.
The rate remained below that threshold for several months before rising to 10.2% in the third quarter. Despite these indicators, the improvement has not translated into greater purchasing power for all Spaniards, adding pressure on the government’s economic model and making wages and housing central concerns ahead of the vote.
Sources: Le Monde Économie.