By NBC News staff and wire reports
Pockets of violence broke out as public demonstrations and strikes over rising unemployment and austerity measures took place in many parts of Europe Wednesday.
Spanish and Portuguese workers staged a coordinated general strike across the Iberian Peninsula, shutting transport, grounding flights and closing schools to protest against spending cuts and tax hikes.
International rail services were disrupted by strikes in Belgium and workers in Greece, Italy and France planned work stoppages or demonstrations as part of a "European Day of Action and Solidarity.” Read the full story.
Related content:
- Protesters gather in front of Greece's parliament as lawmakers consider austerity measures
- Is that one vote or three? Daughter raises her hand along with mom during EU vote
- Anger over Portugal austerity reaches steps of Lisbon parliament
- Angela Merkel greeted warmly by prime minister, but not by Greeks
