Catalonia educators announce new strike cycle and protest

The Assemblea Educativa de Catalunya (AEC) has called for a new cycle of strikes and protests following a meeting in Lleida. A demonstration is scheduled for November 21, with the first strike day set for November 26. The AEC anticipates that these mobilizations could extend into the second academic term.

The educators' primary demands include increasing teaching staff, providing more resources for inclusive education, reducing classroom ratios, and improving salary conditions. Additionally, the AEC has ratified a decision to suspend all school trips, excursions, and camps for the remainder of the school year.

The decision follows a recent consultation of approximately 32,845 professionals, which showed a divided workforce: 50.2% voted against further strikes, while 49.8% supported them. However, 79% of respondents expressed willingness to participate in a demonstration. The AEC has dismissed claims of teacher demobilization, citing technical issues with the consultation process and a lack of dialogue from the regional Education Department.