A new wave of political struggle has erupted in Castilla y León as left-wing parties and civic organizations have come together to form the Respeto platform, aiming to push for change in forest management. The catalyst for this alliance was the devastating wildfires this summer, which claimed five lives and destroyed around 150,000 hectares of forest. The scale of the tragedy sparked anger among residents and activists, who believe that the regional authorities failed to manage the crisis.
The platform includes representatives from PSOE, Izquierda Unida, Sumar, Podemos, as well as major trade unions and consumer associations. They oppose the policies of the current regional government, led by the Partido Popular (PP), and demand respect for the rural communities affected by the fires. One of their main demands is the resignation of the head of the environmental department, whom activists hold responsible for the poor organization of firefighting efforts.
Negligence allegations and calls for change
Prosecutors have launched an investigation into possible misconduct by regional officials during the summer wildfires. The focus is on potential negligence and failure in their duty to protect people and the environment. The situation is especially tense in the province of León, which suffered the greatest damage. A mass protest is planned there for November 23 to draw attention to the issue and underscore the urgent need for change.
Platform members emphasize that the wildfire tragedy is just the tip of the iceberg. In their view, the region’s rural areas have suffered for years from a lack of attention and investment, making them vulnerable to natural disasters. Activists demand not only a reform of the fire safety system but also comprehensive measures to support rural areas: improving transportation, creating affordable housing, and restricting the construction of large industrial facilities that could harm the environment.
Forest firefighters and the employment dispute
The status and working conditions of forest firefighters are a key focus of the platform’s demands. At present, many of them are employed on temporary contracts during fire season only, with some duties outsourced to private companies. Activists are pushing for the creation of a fully state-run service that would operate year-round. Recent government statements on plans to nationalize the service within three years have been met with skepticism: unions argue that actual conditions for workers are not improving, and promises remain unfulfilled.
At the same time, the Respeto platform is highlighting the region’s demographic decline. Over recent decades, the population of Castilla y León has dropped by hundreds of thousands, while the country as a whole has seen growth. Activists accuse the ruling party of enacting policies that drive residents away and contribute to the decline of rural areas.
Corruption scandals and political discord
In addition to environmental and social issues, platform participants highlight corruption cases tied to permits for building wind farms. These scandals erode public trust and intensify calls for greater transparency and accountability from officials. Even within the left-wing coalition itself, disagreements remain over the upcoming elections: some parties are considering a joint run, but so far have not reached a consensus.
In the coming months, Castilla y León faces significant political developments. A mass demonstration in León may become a turning point for the region’s governance and its relationship with local residents. Issues such as environmental protection, social justice, and anti-corruption efforts are moving to the forefront, while the unification of the left promises to make these topics central to the election agenda.
