Spain’s employers’ associations have described participation in the general strike of 11 November 2026 as generally low in an initial assessment. However, there were differences between sectors and regions, the Spanish employers’ association CEOE and the association of small and medium-sized enterprises Cepyme said. CEOE president Antonio Garamendi also criticised members of the government who had called for people to take part in the strike.
The associations’ assessment reflects the situation at midday and is not a final tally. According to them, business activity was normal in most sectors and regions. Areas and economic sectors with a stronger union presence were said to be more affected. The associations say they are gathering information from their regional organisations, sectors and member companies.
As another indicator, they are monitoring electricity demand. This had fallen by around five per cent by about 12 noon, CEOE and Cepyme said. The associations compared the figure with previous strikes and referred to demand on a normal working day. However, electricity demand does not provide a direct indication of the number of people on strike. The associations gave no independently verified participation rate.
Garamendi told the television channel Antena 3 that electricity consumption had fallen by six per cent between 9 and 11 am. He compared this figure with a decrease he cited during a strike in 2014. The channel pointed out that these were Garamendi’s figures, not an official tally of strike participation.
The employers’ president also opposed the political support for the industrial action. He criticised the second deputy prime minister and other members of the government for encouraging people to take part. He asked who the strike was directed against, and pointed to the government’s responsibility for problems with housing and public services.
Several Trade unions had called for the 24-hour strike, including the two major union confederations, UGT and CCOO. Their demands include better wages, access to housing and stronger public services. The protest is also supported by a tenants’ organisation.
CEOE and Cepyme also reported incidents and individual acts of vandalism, which they condemned. They called for the right of those who wanted to work to be respected. Garamendi said he intended to hold those responsible to account if incidents occurred. The employers’ statements are not a final assessment of the day of the strike.
Editor: Daniel Mayer (Article created with AI assistance).