Spanish doctors launch nationwide strike, demand profession-specific statute

Doctors in multiple Spanish regions launched a nationwide two-day strike on Wednesday, organized by the Professional Group for a Medical and Optional Statute (Apemyf), a coalition of roughly 20 medical unions and associations. The strike, marked by white coat demonstrations, protests what doctors describe as an inadequate generic framework statute and demands a law that specifically addresses their unique working conditions, compensation, and labor rights.

Widespread Participation and Key Demands

The work stoppage has impacted healthcare services in regions including Madrid, Catalonia, the Basque Country, Galicia, and Valencia, with family doctors participating nationwide. Accompanying protests were held in major cities; in Madrid, a march proceeded from the Congress to the Ministry of Health, while in Barcelona, demonstrations targeted the Catalan Parliament and health institutions. Doctors argue that the current framework statute, largely finalized by the Health Ministry with some unions, fails to differentiate their profession from other public employees and does not resolve critical issues like excessive workloads, on-call shift compensation, and career development.

Broad Union Support and Threat of Escalation

While two major unions that led strikes in December have expressed solidarity without formally joining this walkout, a united front has formed among protesting groups. Organizers have not ruled out an indefinite strike if their demands are not met, increasing pressure on both the national government and regional health authorities. The Health Ministry has responded by requesting input from regional governments on certain demands, such as the voluntary nature and pay of on-call shifts—a move opposition regional health ministers have criticized as passing responsibility.

Context of Systemic Strain in Spanish Healthcare

The strike highlights long-standing tensions in Spain’s decentralized public health system, where doctors have complained of understaffing, burnout, and stagnant wages exacerbated by the pandemic. The push for a distinct medical statute reflects a desire for professional recognition and systemic reforms to retain healthcare workers. The outcome could influence labor relations not only in healthcare but across Spain’s public sector, as other specialized professions may seek similar tailored agreements.