Labour market reforms: Unions have participated in strikes to protest against the austerity policies which have a negative impact on the middle and working classes. In early 2012, a new labour law was introduced that makes it easier and cheaper for employers to employ and dismiss workers. Other recent labour law reforms in Spain include reducing early retirement and partial unemployment benefits.

Arrest of trade unionists: On 18 February 2013, police used truncheons to beat union workers striking at Madrid's international Barajas airport. It was the first day of a one week strike over Iberia airline's decision to cut over 3,800 jobs and reduce salaries. Hundreds of striking workers protested, chanted and whistled at Barajas' Terminal 4 and approximately 2,000 people demonstrated outside the terminal. One group staged a sit-in and other protesters marched 8 kilometres around Barajas. Police forcefully threw some workers out of the terminal and arrested at least 5 protesters. Both air stewards and ground staff employed by Iberia participated in the strike.

On 29 March 2012, Spain's two main trade unions, the UGT and CCOO, held a general strike over labour law reforms which make it cheaper for employers to hire and fire workers. According to official figures, the police arrested 176 protesters and 104 people were injured.

Disclaimer: © ITUC-CSI-IGB 2010

This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States.