Nationwide Protests After Legislative Defeat
Thousands protested across Spain to demand stronger tenant protections after the government's failure to pass emergency housing legislation. Around 50 marches were planned in cities including Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. A Valencia Tenants' Union spokesperson described widespread anger on the streets.[S2][S3]
The left-wing coalition government's measures followed public outrage over the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, who couldn't afford a sharp rent increase. Although she later reached an agreement to return home, the case sparked protests demanding lower rents, an end to evictions, and a ban on investment funds buying properties.[S3]
Madrid Rallies and Growing Calls for a General Strike
One of the largest demonstrations took place in Madrid, with organizers claiming 500,000 participants and the government estimating 70,000. The Madrid Tenants' Union threatened a general strike, stating that the government's proposed measures were insufficient and their rejection aggravates the housing crisis.[S2]
Protesters set out from Puerta del Sol, where dozens have been camping for days. A 26-year-old librarian said he used to pay 900 euros for a two-bedroom flat, but now a one-bedroom flat costs 1,000 euros. He vowed to keep protesting until someone regulates rent increases.[S1]
Clashes in Valencia and Rejected Legislation
Protesters in Valencia confronted police near a real estate summit, with nine police injured and five arrested. The legislation rejected by Congress included a ban on evictions of vulnerable tenants until 2030 and restrictions on investment funds buying properties.[S3]
The defeat of the legislation increases speculation about a possible early general election. The next election must be held by next boreal summer at the latest. The Bank of Spain estimates a deficit of more than 7 million homes in the country.[S2]
