Thousands of students and professors marched through central Madrid in defense of public universities, capping two successful days of strikes against policies by the regional government under Isabel Díaz Ayuso. Protesters demand more funding and oppose the Higher Education Law. Madrid provides the least funding per university student in Spain.
On November 27, 2025, thousands marched through Madrid's streets from Atocha to Sol in a massive demonstration that concluded two days of strikes at the region's six public universities. Organizers estimated up to 55,000 participants, with strong adherence: Complutense University reported 96% participation, while only 35% of classes were held at Rey Juan Carlos University.
The main reasons are chronic underfunding and opposition to the Higher Education, University, and Science Law (LESUC), seen as promoting privatization. Madrid allocates the smallest share of its GDP per university student in Spain, and universities operate on 'war budgets,' according to Complutense's rector. Demands include improving the 75.3 million euro budget increase, delivering 34.5 million to Complutense unconditionally, and avoiding repaying 4.4 million in interest. Education Minister Emilio Viciana defended a 'historic' rise, but 310 million euros are still needed to match 2009 levels adjusted for inflation.
Protesters carried banners inspired by Goya's 'The Executions' and chanted slogans like 'Studying is a right, not a luxury,' 'Ayuso, clown, pay the fees yourself,' and 'Public and quality university.' Criticism targeted rectors for their absence and signing deals with private universities, such as one with Pozuelo's city hall. A photo of Complutense and Polytechnic rectors with private entities fueled outrage.
Students like PhD candidate Lucía Cano in biology decried low stipends (1,088 euros in the first year) and fund diversions from research. Professors and administrative staff, like UCM's Ana, lamented shortages of basics like toner. CGT spokesperson María Eugenia Ruiz called the strikes a 'success' and did not rule out an indefinite general education strike if changes do not occur. The regional government announced 22 million euros to offset tuition reductions, but organizers deem it insufficient.
The protest reached Puerta del Sol, the autonomous government's headquarters, where demands for an accessible public model were reiterated. The 2026 budget debate on December 4 could face paralysis threats.