Briefing
Barcelona, 6 November 2026 — Comisiones Obreras (CC.OO.) in Catalonia has described the minimum service levels set by the Generalitat de Catalunya by Ordre EMT/220/2026 for the planned general strike on 11 November 2026 as “descompensados” (unbalanced). According to the union, the percentages in the order particularly disadvantage social services and certain areas of healthcare, because they require high coverage levels and could therefore effectively restrict the right to strike. The criticism was reported, among others, by Europa Press documented.
Ordre EMT/220/2026, published on 5 November by the Departament d'Empresa i Treball , sets sector-specific minimum service levels. For public transport, the order sets quotas during busy periods (morning and late afternoon/evening) which media reports give as around 25 per cent of normal service for the metro, buses, Rodalies and similar lines. In other areas, such as emergency services and emergency telephone numbers, the Generalitat orders substantially higher minimum service levels to guarantee basic provision and public safety.
CC.OO. stresses that minimum service levels can be compatible with protecting the public, but says they must be set proportionately and transparently. The union announced that it would examine individual cases in which employees were assigned to minimum services without a formal basis, and has not ruled out legal action before the administrative courts. Under Spanish administrative practice, such challenges are possible provided the authorities clearly explain the percentages and their reasoning.
The developments primarily concern Catalonia; the impact on everyday life in Barcelona and other municipalities will depend on the legal outcome and how the orders are implemented in practice. In its statements, the Departament d'Empresa i Treball points to the obligation to ensure basic services during large-scale work stoppages. Further information on specific sectors and figures is available in the official order and in reporting by Europa Press and other regional sources.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).