Eviction of 87-year-old woman sparks housing protests in Madrid
Police escorted Maricarmen Abascal from the apartment she had called home for more than seven decades. The case has reignited debate over Spain's housing crisis, rising rents and protections for long-term tenants.
On Wednesday, the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal in Madrid sparked protests as she was removed from her long-time residence on Alcalde Sainz de Baranda Street. Her 71-year tenure at the property was highlighted by protesters who chanted for her support. The eviction came after a prolonged legal battle with a real estate company that took over the property in 2018, and the company rejected her lawyer's proposals and rent postponement requests.
Despite a writer offering to cover her rent, the real estate firm declined. The case underscores the housing crisis in Spain's major cities, where skyrocketing rental prices have led to gentrification and a scarcity of affordable housing. While Madrid's left-wing government advocates for stronger tenant protections and rent controls, the conservative regional government prefers a market-oriented solution.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
