Millions of Spaniards are taking part in the country's first general strike in 14 years, as mass protests sweep the country over rapidly rising housing costs.
The action was supported by the largest trade unions and tenant groups. In some cities, protesters blocked roads and clashed with police. In Barcelona, traffic was blocked with burning tires; In Madrid, with garbage cans. Clashes with law enforcement authorities were also recorded in the capital.
In the last decade, rents in Spain have increased by 80%, while housing prices have increased by 63%. The situation became even more heated following the September eviction of 87-year-old Merikman Abskal from the house she had lived in for more than 70 years. Her case sparked a new wave of outrage and became one of the symbols of the housing crisis.
The strike participants are now demanding a rent freeze, eviction protection for vulnerable residents and tighter oversight of short-term rentals. The mass protests come less than three weeks before a snap general election scheduled for November 29.