Self-Employed Stage New Protests Across Canary Islands

Self-Employed Workers Mobilise for Dignified Conditions

Self-employed workers are returning to the streets this Monday, 2nd March, to demand “dignified working conditions”. The mobilisations, called by the Platform for the Dignity of the Self-Employed, come just three months after the protest on 30th November last year, when the collective first raised its voice to demand changes to their profession. This time, rallies will be held both in the Canary Islands and on the Spanish mainland.

March Planned for Gran Canaria’s Capital

In the Canary Islands, the protest will begin at 10:00 am in the Plaza de España in the Gran Canarian capital, Las Palmas. From there, a march will proceed along Mesa y López towards the Naval Base. The event will conclude in the Plaza de la Feria, opposite the Government Delegation, with the reading of a manifesto. Parallel rallies will be held on other islands in the Archipelago, including Lanzarote and La Graciosa.

Key Demands of the Protest Movement

Among the main demands of the collective are calls for fair conditions, a reduction in social security contributions, greater social protection, and recognition for self-employed work. Following the success of the mobilisation on 30th November, which saw over 80,000 self-employed people take to the streets in 21 cities, the movement is now taking a further step by expanding the call to almost 40 municipalities, consolidating itself as a leading voice in defence of the sector.

Frustration Over Lack of Meaningful Reform

The Platform for the Dignity of the Self-Employed denounces that, despite the strength shown in the previous protest, no deep reforms satisfying workers’ needs have been achieved. In this regard, the self-employed continue to face high tax pressure, disproportionate contributions relative to their income, scant social protection compared to other workers, excessive bureaucratic procedures, and the constant deterioration of small businesses and the local economy.

Impact on a Vital Sector of the Economy

This situation directly impacts millions of people across the country. Official data indicates there are over three million self-employed workers in Spain. A large part of them work in strategic sectors such as retail, hospitality, and services.

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