[REVISION HISTORY]

Spanish railway worker strikes

5 recorded revisions of this situation.

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2026-11-07 01:51 UTC → 2026-11-07 21:37 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The SEMAF union initiated strikes in Spain, leading to significant service disruptions. In early November, the operator OUIGO cancelled all scheduled train services for November 2 after a court ruling provisionally overturned a government mandate intended to ensure minimum service levels. ~~OUIGO reported that approximately 40 trains would be suppressed, affecting roughly 20,000 passengers.~~ While OUIGO reached an agreement with SEMAF to cancel strikes for several dates in November and December, the union maintained its strike threats for other dates. Following a meeting with Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo that failed to resolve grievances, SEMAF called for solo strikes across eight different operators, including Renfe, Iryo, and several others. The union’s actions are driven by allegations of breaches in collective bargaining agreements concerning worker fatigue, excessive shifts, and work-life balance. Recent negotiations with First Vice President and Minister of Transport Carlos Cuerpo yielded no progress, leading SEMAF to proceed with planned strikes at Renfe on November 10 and 12. The union described the meeting as a “first contact” session where no advancements were made regarding demands for improved railway safety and working conditions. A broader general strike is scheduled for November 17, involving 24-hour strikes at Adif and Renfe organized by several unions, including CCOO, UGT, CGT, SF, and the Sindicato de Circulación Ferroviario (SCF). The SCF has specifically called for 24-hour strikes at Adif on November 17 and 19, citing staff shortages and the need for updated technical safety instructions. Unions continue to demand increased staffing in control centers and a review of technical instructions to prevent fatigue following a fatal accident in Urda. In response to the upcoming Renfe strikes on November 10 and 12, the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility has established minimum service levels. High-speed and long-distance trains will operate at 72%, medium-distance services at an average of 65%, and freight services at 20%.

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