Podemos Leader Calls for Minimum Wage Increase to €1,800 in Spain

Ione Belarra, the general secretary of the Spanish political party Podemos, has urged the government to raise the Interprofessional Minimum Wage (SMI) to €1,800 per month. This proposal comes amid rising housing costs in Spain, which Belarra argues should align with countries like France, where the minimum wage is currently €1,823 per month [1].

Alignment with French Standards

During a parliamentary session, Belarra justified her request by pointing to the comparable cost of living, particularly housing, between Spain and France. She also highlighted the difference in working hours, noting that France operates on a 35-hour workweek. Belarra expressed concern over the financial strain on Spanish workers, stating, “People cannot live like this, people are suffocated and can no longer cope with this precariousness and these salaries.”

Government Response and Previous Increases

María Jesús Montero, Spain’s First Vice President and Minister of Finance, did not directly respond to Belarra’s specific request. However, she defended the government’s recent efforts to increase the SMI, recalling that it stood at €735 per month before Pedro Sánchez became Prime Minister [1]. Montero affirmed the government’s commitment to further increases, stating, “The aspiration of this Government is to continue rising,” and acknowledged that the SMI should provide more than just a basic subsistence level.

Recent Changes in Leadership

Ione Belarra served as Minister of Social Rights and 2030 Agenda from March 31, 2021, to November 21, 2023 [1]. She currently holds the position of Secretary General of Podemos, assuming office on June 13, 2021 [1]. Pablo Bustinduy succeeded her as Minister of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and 2030 Agenda, while Sira Rego took over as Minister of Youth and Children [1].