BILBAO – Thousands of workers across the Basque Country demonstrated Tuesday, demanding the regional government actively support the establishment of a Basque minimum wage, a move proponents say would address regional cost-of-living disparities adn improve worker livelihoods. Protests unfolded in Bilbao, San Sebastián, and Vitoria-Gasteiz, organized by leading Basque trade unions ELA, LAB, and CCOO.
The push for a regional minimum wage comes as national wage levels struggle to keep pace with the higher expenses faced by residents in the Basque Country. Unions argue a tailored wage floor would bolster the purchasing power of lower-income workers and stimulate the local economy. The Basque Government has previously expressed openness to exploring the possibility, but concrete action has stalled, prompting the coordinated demonstrations.according to union representatives, the demonstrations drew participants from diverse sectors, including industry, services, and healthcare. ELA General Secretary Txiheru goienetxea stated, “A Basque minimum wage isn’t about privilege; it’s about justice and ensuring a decent standard of living for all workers in our community.” LAB spokesperson Garbiñe Lizarraga echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a wage that reflects the unique economic realities of the region.
The current national minimum wage in Spain is €1,134 per month (as of 2024). Unions are advocating for a Basque minimum wage set at a level that accounts for the region’s higher cost of housing, transportation, and other essential goods. The Basque Government is expected to address the issue in upcoming parliamentary sessions, with unions vowing to maintain pressure until a concrete plan is implemented. The debate highlights a broader trend within Spain, where several regions are exploring greater autonomy over wage policies to address localized economic challenges.
