Spain faces wildfire risks and forest management labor strikes

Spain is facing heightened wildfire risks and labor unrest regarding forest management. In Andalusia, the Asociación Forestal Andaluza (AFA) has called for urgent policy changes following the Niebla fire, which they described as a monumental failure. The AFA criticized the current state of the INFOCA firefighting device, citing a loss of professional expertise and territory connection.

In the Valencian Community, the Generalitat has declared a level 3 pre-emergency due to extreme fire risk, restricting access to natural parks like Font Roja and Serra de Mariola. Simultaneously, unions including STAS-Intersindical, UGT, and CCOO have called for a strike on August 30 and 31 against Vaersa. The workers are demanding improved labor conditions, increased service stability, and better equipment for fire prevention personnel.

In Asturias, the regional government is launching a citizen training strategy across 60 municipalities. This initiative, part of the PIMA Eventos Adversos project, aims to teach residents how to protect homes and act during emergencies, particularly in high-risk zones identified following the 2025 fires in the Fuentes del Narcea, Degaña, and Ibias Natural Park.