28 April 2022

Although the immediate threat of violent protests against the supply chain in Spain has passed, activism remains a potent component of the national social/political makeup. Demonstrations and protests are common. Powerful and well organised unions have overseen major strikes and disruptions across multiple industry sectors in the past.

By Steve Bacot, LandRisk Manager

Most often protests focus on socio-economic issues and take place in major cities near government institutions or other official buildings. Apart from localised disruption, these protests do not have much impact on transport and logistics.

Catalan independence is also a considerable driver of protests in the Catalonia region and elsewhere. Previous protests have taken place at Barcelona city and airport and at one of the major border crossings to France at La Jonquera. Protesters have also used similar tactics to the transport sector strike and have blockaded roads and shut down traffic.

Previous protests prompted the major car manufacturer Seat to shut down production at a plant in the region, and Catalan unions had called for a general strike during the period which affected port operations in the port of Barcelona. 

In the future, large demonstrations are likely to take place in Barcelona and the wider Catalonian region over the issue of independence of the region. Such events are most likely to be triggered by events related to the independence movement, like the 2017 Independence Referendum or the sentencing of the independence leaders in October 2019. This can evolve into similar situations as the October 2019 protests, with major disruptions to logistics operations.

It is also important to note that the recent transport sector strike has been suspended not cancelled. The ultimate aims of the Platform for the Defence of the Road Transport Sector have not been achieved. This could lead to a return of strike action. If this takes place disruption is inevitable but the Spanish Police and Civil Guard response is likely to be rapid with officers well practiced in escorting convoys of trucks. However, the threat to logistics companies still operating remains and drivers will be at increased risk if violent strike action takes place.

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