Stories from Madrid · Spain

The Spanish Red Cross employment area helped nearly 30,000 people secure jobs in 2025. The organization provided guidance, accompaniment, and mediation to over 280,000 individuals across the country. Maica Sánchez, the employment director for the Spanish Red Cross, stated the function is to reduce obstacles for vulnerable populations, specifically those over 55 years old. Spain lost 170,000 jobs through March, according to the first EPA report of the year published recently. The report also noted job destruction within the technology sector. Some estimates from savings banks suggest the arrival of artificial intelligence could lead to a potential loss of 2 million jobs in Spain. May Day demonstrations have mixed labor issues with these economic developments. Artificial intelligence could lead to a net loss of between 400,000 and 500,000 jobs in Spain, according to a FUNCAS study.

A report from the Anar Foundation and Mutua Madrileña for the 2024-2025 academic year states that 12.3% of students in Spain report experiencing bullying. The data indicates that many children perceive the issue as a recurring threat. The data indicates that thousands of children in the country are affected by school harassment. Approximately 12.3% of students in Spain are affected by bullying, according to reported data. One in three victims does not report the incidents due to fear or a desire to avoid worrying parents. The report noted that suicide is the second leading cause of death among children in Spain, following accidents. The issue encompasses physical violence as well as newer forms like cyberbullying and threats involving artificial intelligence.

Educators in the Embajadores district of Madrid have been on strike for three weeks. Protesters were reportedly expelled from a municipal plenary session last Wednesday following a confrontation with José Fernández Sánchez, the delegate for social policies, family, and childhood. Spokesperson Manuela Bergerot highlighted the educators' efforts to dignify labor and said the essential nature of their roles. The strike aims to secure better working conditions and visibility for the profession. The movement continues as educators seek recognition for their essential services. Spokesperson Manuela Bergerot noted that early childhood educators have now reached 25 days of an indefinite strike. Workers are marching alongside the CGT organization to demand improved conditions for the zero-to-three age education stage.

The Prado Museum has launched an initiative to recover, rehabilitate, and condition a Goya artwork for re-exhibition. The piece, previously valued at 60,000, will be displayed temporarily in the museum.

Luis Arwello, president of the Spanish Episcopal Conference, published a pastoral letter addressing the migration debate through the lens of social doctrine. Arwello stated that human dignity is non-negotiable. He called for avoiding divisive slogans and power interests to prevent polarization. Spanish President Pedro Sánchez issued a message on Friday, May 1, to mark International Workers' Day. Sánchez stated that Spain currently possesses more employment and more rights than ever before. He called for the celebration of these achievements and a renewal of commitment to progress. The message was published via the social media platform X. Arguello called for measures to avoid polarization regarding the issue.

Spain is expected to meet its deficit and debt commitments while simultaneously spending more than the levels agreed upon with the European Union. The move follows recent discussions regarding fiscal compliance and national spending priorities.

Spanish National Police and Bavarian Police conducted a joint operation targeting a phone scam involving elderly victims. Scammers posed as relatives or police officers, claiming a family member was involved in a serious traffic accident.

Banco Sabadell completed the sale of 100% of the British entity TSB to Banco Santander for 2.9 billion pounds, approximately 3.3 billion euros. The transaction follows 10 months of processing.

Medical professionals in Spain have been engaged in strikes and work stoppages since June of last year. The group stated they have reached a breaking point with the existing regulations. A potential strike is being discussed for the period of May 18 to May 22. The Ministry of Health has been criticized for not adequately communicating the gravity of the situation. The doctors stated they will not stop their work for the population despite the planned action. The strike is estimated to cause losses of approximately 200 million euros. Further strikes are expected to continue through May. A fifth week of strikes is planned for June 15 to 19 if no agreement is reached. The labor dispute has resulted in the cancellation of thousands of medical appointments and surgeries. Commentators noted a lack of will from both sides to reach a deal regarding current proposals.

A CIS survey indicates 55% of Spanish citizens believe artificial intelligence will cause an increase in unemployment. The report noted an increase in state requests following the COVID-19 pandemic.