Spain faces urban decay in Palma and social protests in Zaragoza

In Palma, five city kiosks have remained closed for over a year, leading to increased vandalism, graffiti, and a deteriorating urban image. The structures, located in areas such as Plaza del Mercat and Plaza Progreso, have become targets for graffiti and are being used by homeless individuals for shelter. Residents have noted the loss of essential services provided by these kiosks, such as newspaper sales and mobile phone card recharging.

In Zaragoza, social collectives including the Confederación General del Trabajo (CGT) and the Coordinadora Juvenil Socialista (CJS) have organized alternative events to protest the commercialization of the Fiestas del Pilar. These groups argue that public spaces are being increasingly ceded to private companies and that socio-political expression is being restricted during official festivities. Protests have also addressed labor conditions for cleaning staff and defended the freedom of expression for local educators.