The Generalitat de Catalunya put participation in the strike called by several teachers’ organisations at 9.3 per cent at 11:30 on 8 September 2026. The figure is based on the responses received by that time from state and publicly funded schools. The department stressed that the figure could change as further reports came in during the day.
Unions such as Ustec and CGT dismissed the government figure as too low and reported considerably higher rates. Media reports cited participation of between 20 and 30 per cent. Such discrepancies are common in industrial disputes: the administration and organised labour count different groups of people and time periods, and use different methods. Verified final figures for the full strike day were not initially available.
The education minister Esther Niubó called for de-escalation on Monday and reaffirmed the government’s readiness to engage in dialogue. She referred to upcoming talks at the Mesa Sectorial with the social partners. At the same time, the Departament d’Educació maintained the minimum service levels set by resolution to ensure care and basic operations at schools. According to consistent media reports and statements from the Generalitat, lessons began as scheduled at most schools; there were rallies and some disruption in places.
The conflict stems from long-running disputes over staffing levels, class sizes and pay in the public school system. Several associations deliberately chose the first day of school for a walkout to draw attention to what they consider insufficient progress in negotiations. The government, by contrast, points to budgetary constraints and measures already under way, including staff planning and the organisation of the 2026/2027 school year.
Facts and attributions should be distinguished: 9.3 per cent is an official figure from the Generalitat for a specific point in time (survey at 11:30, 8 September 2026). Higher percentages come from union statements reported by the media. Whether, and to what extent, further strike days will follow is a union announcement, not an established fact. The political assessment remains contested: while the cabinet emphasises the continuation of normal operations and structured negotiations, the unions view the mobilisation as a sign of discontent among members and demand prompt, substantial commitments. Decisions are expected in the coming talks.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).