Spanish CEOE chief Garamendi criticised for youth and sick‑leave remarks

García Garamendi, head of Spain’s main employers’ confederation (CEOE), sparked controversy with comments describing young workers as “memos” and alleging a “brutal attack” on judges. His remarks questioned the legitimacy of medical sick‑leave and called for “lifting the carpets” to defend judicial independence. Critics say the statements undermine labour protections and reflect a dismissive attitude toward workers’ health and rights, prompting a broader debate on employer‑employee relations in Spain.

The debate highlights tensions between employer organisations and trade unions over how sick‑leave and youth employment should be managed, with political figures and labour groups warning that such rhetoric could erode trust in institutions and workers’ rights.