Hundreds of thousands of people participated in a general strike and protests called by Spain's major labor unions on Wednesday, protesting the rising cost of living and the housing crisis. This marks the first such general strike in the country in 14 years.

In the capital, Madrid, approximately 120,000 people joined the demonstrations, while over 50,000 protesters gathered in Barcelona. The strike severely disrupted transportation and other public services across Spain.

Clashes and vandalism in Barcelona

Videos from the protests in Barcelona show masked individuals setting fire to garbage bins and smashing shop windows. Police responded by firing tear gas canisters. Local media reports also indicated that a group of people launched fireworks at police officers.

Electoral context

The protests come ahead of Spain's parliamentary election, scheduled for November 29. The strike and demonstrations reflect widespread public anger over the escalating cost of living and housing affordability issues in the country.