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News

News

Latest news and updates about living in Spain.

culture

Spain Gears Up for the 2024 Christmas Lottery: A Tradition of Joy and Fortune

As the festive season approaches, Spain is abuzz with excitement for one of its most beloved and enduring traditions: the Spanish Christmas Lottery, affectionately known as "El Gordo" or "The Fat One." This year, the draw is set to take place on December 22, 2024, and it promises to be as thrilling and rewarding as ever.

A Rich History and Cultural Significance

The Spanish Christmas Lottery has a storied history, dating back to its first draw on December 18, 1812, in Cádiz. Since then, it has become an integral part of Spanish culture, with the annual draw held every December 22. This tradition has endured through various historical events, including the Spanish Civil War, and continues to unite the nation in a shared moment of anticipation and celebration.

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politics

Spain Moves Forward with Citizen Participation Law: A New Era for Civic Engagement

In a significant step towards enhancing democratic participation, the Spanish government has approved a groundbreaking project for a Law on Citizen Participation. This initiative, announced on December 19, 2024, is set to revolutionize the way citizens engage with the political process in Spain.

A Commitment to Democracy

The Law on Citizen Participation is a testament to the government's commitment to strengthening democratic principles and fostering a more inclusive and participatory society. This legislation aims to provide a robust framework for citizen involvement in decision-making processes, ensuring that the voices of all members of the community are heard.

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employment

Spain Set to Implement Shorter Work Week Starting 2025

In a significant move aimed at improving work-life balance, Spain is on the verge of reducing its standard working week from 40 hours to 37.5 hours, a change slated to take effect by the end of 2025.

Agreement and Key Players

The agreement, signed on December 20, 2024, is the result of months of negotiations between the Spanish government, led by Labour Minister Yolanda Díaz, and major trade unions. This collaborative effort marks a historic step towards a more balanced and sustainable work environment.

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transportation

Special Christmas Traffic Operation in Cantabria: Preparing for 282,000 Vehicles on the Roads

As the festive season approaches, the autonomous community of Cantabria in northern Spain is gearing up for one of its busiest periods on the roads. The regional authorities have launched a special traffic operation to manage the anticipated influx of vehicles, ensuring the safety and smooth flow of traffic for both locals and visitors.

Anticipated Traffic Volume

Between December 20 and January 6, Cantabria is expected to see a significant surge in road traffic, with an estimated 282,000 vehicles set to traverse its roads. This increase is largely due to the holiday season, as people travel to visit family, enjoy winter vacations, or take advantage of the region's popular tourist destinations.

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education

Teachers' Union STEC Denounces Authoritarian Tactics in Cantabria's Education Department

In a significant development in the educational sector of Cantabria, Spain, the Teachers' Union of Cantabria (STEC) has vehemently denounced what it describes as "authoritarian tactics" employed by the regional Education Department. This criticism comes amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions between the union and the department, particularly targeting the actions of Education Councillor Silva and Regional President Buruaga.

Growing Tensions and Lack of Dialogue

On December 20, 2024, STEC issued a strong statement highlighting the department's failure to address the legitimate demands of public school teachers. The union accuses the Education Department of ignoring the pressing issues faced by the teaching community, leading to a severe erosion of trust between the educators and the administrative leadership.

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culture

Traditional School Nativity Scene Contest in Arco de la Bahía

In the charming municipality of Arco de la Bahía, a beloved holiday tradition is once again taking center stage as the community prepares for its annual Concurso de Belenes Escolares, or School Nativity Scene Contest. This festive event has become a staple of the local holiday season, showcasing the creativity and talent of the area's young students.

The Contest

The contest involves students from various schools in the municipality who come together to create intricate and imaginative nativity scenes. These scenes are not just simple depictions but often include elaborate settings, detailed figures, and innovative designs that reflect the students' understanding of the Christmas story and their artistic skills.

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