Spain’s Supreme Court has suspended the voting rights of 163,000 citizens naturalised under the Democratic Memory Law, prompting the government to seek urgent intervention from the Constitutional Court. The dispute comes ahead of the November 29 general election and could affect voter participation.
IMF Raises Spain’s 2026 Growth Forecast to 2.5% but Warns Inflation Remains High
The International Monetary Fund has upgraded Spain’s economic growth forecast to 2.5% for 2026, more than twice the estimated European Union average. However, the IMF expects inflation to reach 3.7%, highlighting continued pressure on household finances despite strong economic performance.
Bank of Spain and BBVA Raise Growth Forecasts to 2.6% Amid Housing Concerns
The Bank of Spain and BBVA Research have raised their economic growth forecasts to 2.6%, citing strong employment and tourism activity. Both warn that housing shortages, electricity grid congestion and energy costs could constrain Spain’s economic expansion over the medium term.
Spain’s High-Speed Rail Network Hit by Fire and Breakdown on Madrid-Barcelona Route
Spain’s high-speed rail network has suffered major disruptions after a train fire interrupted the Madrid-Barcelona corridor. A separate breakdown near Zaragoza forced passengers to evacuate and halted services in both directions, affecting travel along one of the country’s busiest rail routes.
Spanish Carmakers Threaten Production and Job Cuts Over EU Emissions Targets
Major automotive manufacturers operating in Spain have warned of potential production reductions and workforce cuts unless European Union regulators ease vehicle emissions requirements scheduled for 2030. The warnings reflect growing industry opposition to the costs of meeting stricter environmental standards.
Spanish Housing Groups Warn Rental Supply Is Shrinking Following New Regulations
Property industry representatives in Spain say landlords are withdrawing homes from the long-term rental market following recent government housing measures. The groups argue that tighter regulations are reducing available supply and worsening affordability pressures for tenants.
Madrid Housing Protest Continues as Activists Prepare for November 11 General Strike
Housing activists remain camped in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol following clashes with counter-protesters, maintaining pressure on authorities over rising property costs. Organisers are preparing a nationwide general strike on November 11 to demand action on Spain’s housing affordability crisis.
Spain Records 498 Workplace Deaths in First Eight Months as Unions Demand Action
Official labour statistics show that 498 workers died in occupational accidents across Spain during the first eight months of the year. The figures have intensified union calls for stronger enforcement of workplace safety regulations and greater government oversight.
Spain’s Consumer Borrowing Rises as Groups Warn of Predatory Lending
Consumer credit is increasing across Spain as households face sustained pressure from inflation and living costs. Consumer protection organisations warn that growing demand for loans could expose borrowers to excessive interest charges and unsustainable debt.
King Felipe VI Reaffirms Spanish Sovereignty During Royal Visit to Ceuta
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have made their first official visit to Ceuta since 2007, with the king reaffirming the enclave’s status as part of Spain. The visit follows a migration crisis in July and comes amid renewed attention to border management and territorial sovereignty.
French National Rally Leader Meets Spain’s Vox Chief to Criticise Immigration Policy
French National Rally leader Jordan Bardella has met Vox president Santiago Abascal in Madrid, where both criticised Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s immigration policies. The meeting reflects closer cooperation between nationalist political parties in France and Spain.
Navarra’s UPN Approves Electoral Alliance With Spain’s People’s Party
The Unión del Pueblo Navarro has approved a joint electoral list with Spain’s conservative People’s Party ahead of the November 29 general election. The agreement received 93% support from the party’s political council, consolidating cooperation between the two parties in Navarra.
Más Madrid Consults Members on Joining New Left-Wing Frente Amplio Coalition
Spanish progressive party Más Madrid has launched a binding membership vote on whether to join the emerging Frente Amplio electoral alliance. The consultation forms part of efforts to bring together left-wing parties ahead of Spain’s November 29 parliamentary election.