Housing activists have taken to the streets across Spain, banging pots, blowing whistles and shaking keys to demand action over rising rents and a shortage of affordable homes. In Madrid, hundreds gathered outside city hall ahead of a key parliamentary vote on housing measures.
The demonstrations are part of a growing movement calling for stronger protections for tenants and greater access to affordable housing. Protesters say high rents are making it increasingly difficult for young people and families to live independently, particularly in major cities.
The latest protests follow the eviction of an 87-year-old Madrid woman from the home where she had lived for seven decades. Her case triggered nationwide anger and helped fuel the current demonstrations.
Spain’s government has proposed measures including stronger protections for vulnerable tenants and restrictions aimed at limiting speculative activity in the housing market.
But housing activists say the proposals do not go far enough. They are demanding longer-term solutions, including more affordable housing and greater security for renters.
With parliament set to consider the measures, protesters are keeping pressure on lawmakers, saying access to a secure and affordable home should be treated as a basic need rather than simply a market issue.
