Feijóo proposes cutting sick pay in Spain: reform or provocation?

Feijóo proposes cutting sick pay: a measure against absenteeism or a declaration of war?

Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of Spain's conservative PP (People's Party), has once again floated a proposal that raises hackles: reducing the wages of workers while they are on sick leave. The idea, already circulating in conservative circles, aims to combat absenteeism, but critics see it as a direct attack on labour rights and an attempt to divert attention from other problems.

The measure, not yet developed in legal terms, is in an embryonic phase that looks more like a trial balloon than a concrete legislative initiative. Still, the mere fact of floating it reveals which way the wind is blowing within the party. Feijóo, who has tried to present himself as a moderate leader, now faces accusations of applying the classic neoliberal playbook: trimming workers' rights while protecting the privileges of the political class.

It is no coincidence that this proposal comes at a time when the polls are not exactly favouring the PP. With a fragmented parliament that makes any majority difficult, some analysts interpret the announcement as an attempt to mobilise his hardline base — the one that sees sickness benefits as a leaky bucket. But the gamble carries risks: in a country with high levels of temporary employment and a strained public health system, cutting the pay of someone on sick leave may be perceived as unnecessary cruelty.

The battle lines are drawn. Feijóo is betting on a tough profile that brings him closer to the identitarian right. In the medium term, the outcome will depend on whether he manages to turn this gesture into votes or, on the contrary, mobilises the left against him. One thing is certain: nobody stays indifferent when the pocket of someone lying on the sofa is touched — but also that of the person breaking their back every day.