13 Oct 2019 | 04:23 AM UTC
Spain: General strike planned in Catalonia October 18
Labor unions call for general strike in Catalonia on October 18; associated protests and disruptions expected
Event
The Intersindical-CSC and Intersindical Alternativa de Catalunya labor unions have called for a general strike in Catalonia on Friday, October 18, to demand the increase of the Catalan minimum wage and to denounce recent labor legislative reforms, perceived as harmful to workers. The strike is expected to mainly affect the education sector, as well as the administration of the Generalitat of Barcelona.
Associated protests are likely across Catalonia during the strike. Heightened security measures, along with traffic disruptions, are likely near any demonstration site.
Context
The strike was previously scheduled to take place on October 11. However, organizers delayed it until October 18. The new date is expected to coincide with the Supreme Court's verdict for an ongoing trial in which several Catalan independence leaders, charged for conducting an independence referendum in October 2017. The ruling is expected to take place between October 11 and October 14.
Advice
Individuals in Catalonia are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate a heightened security presence and localized business and transportation disruptions around protest sites.
