Tenants’ movement gains influence in the general strike debate

The tenants’ movement is gaining prominence in the debate over a possible general strike linked to housing. The Tenants’ Union had long been calling for a stoppage on this issue, with support from alternative labour organisations such as the CGT. CC OO and UGT say they had also been considering the idea, although they did not take the final step until Monday.

Housing has become a major focus of social mobilisation because of rising rents and the difficulty of access, especially in large cities. A general strike, however, depends on the involvement of labour unions with broad organising capacity.

For landlords and tenants, this does not in itself mean immediate legal changes. It may increase political pressure for measures on rents, public housing or market regulation, which should be followed according to how the call develops.