Thousands of workers marched through central Barcelona on 1 May, demanding better working conditions and higher wages. Union delegates and general workers took to the streets to call for advancements such as increased salaries, a reduced working week, and lower taxes for low-income earners.
Union leaders urged politicians to "stop with the tactics and focus on people's priorities". Belén López, general secretary of CCOO in Catalonia, identified the main themes of this year's May Day as "the rejection of wars punishing civilian populations, access to decent housing, and improved salaries".
Camil Ros, general secretary of UGT in Catalonia, added that the day also served to reject fascism, which "expels migrants who come to work", and to demand "gradual salary increases" in a context of "soaring prices".
Key Demands and Legislative Action
The two major unions agreed on the need to revive blocked legislation in the Congress of Deputies, including laws on extending rental contracts and reducing the working week. They also welcomed the Spanish government's initiative to help regularise thousands of migrants living in the country.
