Spain’s Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Labour, Yolanda Díaz, has found herself at the center of a political storm after parliament rejected her proposal to reduce the workweek to 37.5 hours. Despite the setback, Díaz remains committed to her agenda and is already making plans to bring the initiative back for consideration.
The Galician politician, who recently turned 54, acknowledges that the government is facing serious challenges, including corruption scandals. However, she believes the only response to the crisis is to accelerate the social agenda and work tirelessly to improve citizens’ lives.
In a recent interview, Díaz addressed several pressing issues. She commented on the delay in imposing a weapons embargo on Israel, challenges in regulating the arms trade, and the ban on Palestinian flags in Madrid schools. She devoted particular attention to the failed workweek reduction bill, expressing confidence that the reform will ultimately be implemented. Díaz also discussed negotiations with Junts, the 2026 budget outlook, housing policy, the need to legalize half a million migrants, and the fight against corruption.
The Minister of Labor is convinced that reducing the workweek is key to improving conditions for millions of Spaniards. She strongly condemned the actions of the PP, Vox, and Junts parties, which blocked the reform, and believes their decision will have serious political consequences for them. In addition, Díaz emphasizes the importance of housing market reform, which should stop rising prices and limit speculation by investment funds.
On migration issues, Díaz insists on the urgent legalization of 500,000 people living in the country without papers and opposes an approach that views migrants solely as labor. In anti-corruption policy, she promises that the government will continue to propose new measures, even if parliament does not always support them.
In conclusion, Díaz shared her thoughts on the future of political leadership and her desire to inspire progressive citizens. However, she prefers not to comment yet on her further plans or possible participation in upcoming elections.
