Spanish police and Civil Guard hold protest at Interior Ministry

Representatives from nine unions and professional associations of the Spanish National Police and Civil Guard have initiated an indefinite, peaceful sit-in at the Ministry of the Interior in Madrid. The protest follows the breakdown of negotiations regarding retirement benefits and the official recognition of their roles as high-risk professions.

The Ministry of the Interior, led by Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska, informed representatives that the upcoming general elections on November 29 have halted the negotiation process. The government stated it remains open to dialogue but will only resume discussions in the next legislature.

Protesting groups, including JUPOL, SUP, UFP, and various Civil Guard associations such as AUGC and AEGC, demand a ‘dignified retirement’ that accounts for the physical and psychological risks of their service. Key demands include early retirement options, improved pension calculations, and ensuring that benefits apply to both the General Social Security regime and the ‘Clases Pasivas’ system.