Spain: Unionized workers to conduct strike across Basque Country March 12

Unionized public sector employees affiliated with several unions plan to strike across Basque Country March 12. Goals of the work stoppage include demands for salary increases, reduced working hours, and increased acceptance of the Basque language. This is the third such strike following previous work stoppages on Oct. 25 and Dec. 19; both of these strikes featured disruptions to the medical, public transport, education, and administrative sectors, as well as protest marches in Bilbao. Authorities are guaranteeing minimum services in affected sectors.

Medical, public transport, education, and administrative service disruptions are likely throughout the day across Basque Country. Picket protests are likely at locations such as hospitals, transport hubs, schools, and government buildings. Although organizers have not announced plans for a central protest, it is possible that a demonstration or protest march similar to those accompanying the Oct. 25 and Dec. 19 strikes may occur in central Bilbao. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any demonstrations that take shape. Though unlikely, confrontations between protesters and law enforcement officers cannot be ruled out at demonstrations.