Yolanda Díaz, Spain's Minister of Labor, has publicly criticized Antonio Garamendi, the president of the CEOE (the Spanish Confederation of Employers' Organizations), for his opposition to a proposed increase in the minimum wage to €1,221, which would represent a 3.1% hike compared to the previous year. During a press conference following a Cabinet meeting where the wage rise was approved, Díaz pointed out that Garamendi's salary is 23 times higher than the minimum wage, further emphasizing the disparity between high-level executives and the average worker's earnings.

This confrontation is not new; Díaz has previously mentioned Garamendi's income to illustrate the inequalities faced by workers in Spain. In September of the previous year, she indicated that he earned 25 times the minimum wage, showcasing a pattern of rhetoric aimed at highlighting the imbalance between the workforce's compensation and that of top business leaders. This ongoing dialogue raises questions about economic justice and labor rights within the country amidst broader discussions on income inequality.

Additionally, Díaz announced that negotiations would commence in two weeks with labor unions and business organizations to discuss the inclusion of labor representatives on company boards. This initiative aims to ensure that workers have a voice in corporate decisions, reflecting a growing sentiment in Spain to empower labor rights and address mainstream concerns over economic disparities. By pushing for these discussions, Díaz seeks to reaffirm the importance of collective bargaining and the necessity for all stakeholders to contribute to fair labor practices.