Madrid protesters rally over housing crisis
Summary
Tens of thousands marched in Madrid against Spain’s housing crisis, demanding stronger tenant protections, anti-fraud rules and a ban on evictions without alternative housing. The protest was sparked by the eviction of 87-year-old María del Carmen Abascal, which has become a symbol of soaring rents and housing shortages across Spain.
Key Points
- Tens of thousands rallied in Madrid to demand measures protecting tenants and limiting evictions without alternative housing.
- The protest was triggered by the eviction of 87-year-old María del Carmen Abascal from her long-time home in the Retiro neighbourhood.
- Rental costs have surged in Spain as housing shortages, tourism and population growth intensify pressure on urban markets.
- The Bank of Spain says the country faced a shortage of about 550,000 homes last year, while public rental housing remains below 2% of supply.
