Key facts
- Tens of thousands protested in Madrid on Saturday against Spain's housing crisis.
- Protesters demanded better tenant protection, anti-fraud rules, and a ban on evictions without alternative housing.
- The protest was sparked by the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal from her long-term apartment.
- Organizers claimed over 300,000 people participated in the Madrid rally, while authorities estimated 25,000.
- A shortage of 550,000 homes across Spain was estimated by the Bank of Spain last year.
- Some activists set up tents in Madrid's Puerta del Sol square to continue their protest.
Tens of thousands of people protested in central Madrid on Saturday against Spain's escalating housing crisis, demanding greater tenant protections and an end to evictions without alternative housing. The demonstrations were amplified by the recent eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, who was removed from her apartment of seven decades.
The march through the Spanish capital highlighted the severe pressure on long-term tenants in major cities, where rental prices have surged due to gentrification and a shortage of affordable housing. Analysts point to population growth driven by tourism and immigration as contributing factors to the limited housing supply, with the Bank of Spain estimating a nationwide shortage of 550,000 homes last year.
Organizers, including the Madrid Tenants' Union, claimed over 300,000 people participated in the rally, while authorities estimated the figure at 25,000. Following the main protest, some activists established a camp in Puerta del Sol square, pitching tents to continue their demonstration.
Abascal's eviction on Wednesday became a focal point for the discontent. She had lived in the apartment since 1956, but after the building changed ownership in 2018 to investment fund Urbagestion, her rent was significantly increased. Despite previous court blocks and media attention, she was ultimately evicted. Protesters expressed anger over the actions of investment funds and the inability of many to afford housing.
Reports suggest that Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez might call a snap election following the failure of housing legislation to pass parliament on Friday. The protests have gained national attention, potentially revitalizing Sánchez's government. While demonstrations were largely peaceful in 50 cities, clashes with police occurred in Valencia, where rubber bullets and teargas were deployed.