Spain’s housing crisis in spotlight with eviction of pensioner, 87

An 87-year-old woman in Madrid faced eviction after her rent increased by 275%, sparking protests across the city and highlighting Spain's worsening housing crisis. The eviction, which took place in front of television cameras, drew thousands of demonstrators who called for more affordable housing options. Spain's housing costs have surged in recent years, with prices rising by around 50% across the country, according to real estate data.

Madrid has been especially hard hit by the rising prices, ranking highly in global luxury property rankings for two consecutive years. Spain's affordable housing stock is also limited, making up only 1.2% of the country's housing, compared to countries like Britain and France. Critics blame short-term rentals and investment funds for driving up prices and reducing the availability of homes for locals.

The eviction has become a political issue ahead of Spain's general election next year, with both the ruling government and its opposition accusing each other of responsibility for the problem. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called for legislation to prevent such evictions, but his coalition lacks a majority. The controversy also involves another prominent local figure, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, who is under scrutiny for allegedly acquiring a luxury property using public funds.