Protesters in Madrid have vowed to maintain pressure on Spain’s government over the country’s worsening housing crisis, as hundreds remain camped in the capital demanding stronger protection for tenants.
The demonstrators set up tents at the central Puerta del Sol following a large protest over the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, who had lived in her rented apartment for about 70 years.
The case has become a focal point for wider concerns over rising rents, evictions and the shortage of affordable housing. Demonstrators are calling for measures including stronger eviction protections, tighter controls on rents and longer-term rental contracts.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has said his government is working to present a new housing decree at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday. The proposed measures are expected to include changes aimed at strengthening tenant protections, although the government faces the challenge of securing sufficient parliamentary backing.
Housing costs have risen sharply in Spain in recent years. Official figures show property purchase prices have increased by more than 50 per cent over the past decade, while average rents have also climbed significantly.
Protest organisers say they will continue their campaign if the government fails to deliver measures they consider sufficient to address the crisis.
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