Thousands protest across Spain over housing crisis

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across Spain on Saturday to demand stronger protections for tenants after parliament rejected two emergency housing measures proposed by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government. Demonstrations were planned in more than 50 cities, including Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona.

Anger grows over housing costs

The protests reflect growing concern over rising rents, home prices and evictions. Demonstrators are calling for lower rents, stronger tenant protections and restrictions on property purchases by investment funds.

87-year-old woman became symbol

The latest wave of protests was triggered by the eviction of 87-year-old María del Carmen Abascal from her Madrid home in September. She had lived in the apartment for decades before being removed after struggling to afford a sharp rent increase. Public pressure later led to an agreement allowing her to return at a lower rent.

Madrid sees major demonstration

One of the largest demonstrations took place in Madrid, where government estimates put attendance at about 70,000 people. The city’s Tenants’ Union gave a substantially higher estimate. Protesters have also maintained an encampment at Puerta del Sol for several days.

Clashes reported in Valencia

Most demonstrations were peaceful, but clashes were reported in Valencia. Reuters reported that protesters and police confronted each other near the City of Arts and Sciences, with police using rubber bullets and tear gas.

Parliament rejects two measures

Spain’s Congress rejected two government housing decrees on Friday. The first was defeated by 178 votes to 172, while the second failed by 184 votes to 166. The measures had included protections against some evictions, rental-contract extensions and restrictions involving investment funds.

Proposed rental protections

One decree included a two-year extension for certain rental contracts and a suspension of evictions involving vulnerable tenants without alternative accommodation. It also proposed measures affecting tourist rentals and purchases by investment funds.

Automatic renewals also rejected

The second decree sought stronger protections around rental-contract renewals, including requirements for landlords to provide justification in certain circumstances before refusing renewal. That measure was also rejected by Congress.

Government faces political pressure

The parliamentary defeat has increased pressure on Sánchez’s minority government, which relies on support from smaller parties to pass legislation. The housing dispute has also fuelled speculation about the possibility of an early general election, although Spain’s next scheduled election is due in 2027.

Housing shortage adds pressure

Spain is facing a significant shortage of homes as demand continues to outpace construction. Rising property prices and rents have made housing affordability a major issue, particularly in Madrid and Barcelona.

Rent increases remain a concern

According to figures cited by Spanish housing sources, rents have continued to rise sharply, while Madrid and Barcelona remain among the country’s most expensive cities for tenants. The shortage of affordable rental housing has become a central issue in the protests.

Calls for further action

Tenant groups are now calling for additional measures to address the housing shortage and protect renters. Some protesters have also called for a general strike as demonstrations continue across Spain.