Spanish Housing Protests Escalate as Government Pledges Action
Tens of thousands have taken to the streets amid rising rents and a housing shortage, prompting the government to prepare a response.
Housing protesters occupied Madrid's Puerta del Sol square for a third night, awaiting government announcements on measures to address a deepening housing crisis. The demonstrations, which have drawn tens of thousands to the streets in recent days, gained momentum following the eviction of an 87-year-old tenant from her long-time Madrid apartment.
The crisis, characterized by rising costs and a shortage of housing, is pricing many Spaniards out of the market despite Spain's economic growth. Protesters are advocating for enhanced tenant protections, measures against housing fraud, and a moratorium on evictions when alternative housing is not available.
Since the encampment began on Saturday, the number of tents in the central square has grown. Similar protests have emerged in cities across Spain, including Seville, Málaga, Santiago de Compostela, and Palma de Mallorca, drawing international attention to the long-standing issue.
Pope Leo XIV commented on the situation, noting the need for political leaders to find solutions to housing crises affecting communities globally. He emphasized the importance of addressing systemic causes rather than merely reacting to emergencies.
Spain's coalition government, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, was expected to present a decree addressing the crisis. The nation currently has a housing law in effect from 2023, which regulates rents, offers tenant protections, and permits rent caps in high-demand areas upon local government request.
Following a preliminary agreement reached Monday night, the 87-year-old tenant, María del Carmen Abascal, who was hospitalized after her eviction, is expected to return to her apartment. The agreement caps her rent at 30% of her income, not exceeding the previous 500 euros ($570) per month, according to her lawyer. Abascal had been renting the apartment since 1956, and after the building changed ownership in 2018, the rent was significantly increased, a sum she could not afford on her pension. The Madrid Tenants' Union organized the initial protest.