Madrid protest camp grows after 87-year-old's eviction sparks outrage

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Madrid on Sunday to demonstrate against evictions and housing crisis, inspired by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen Abascal. The demonstration took place in the Puerta del Sol public square, where around 100 tents were set up by demonstrators, according to an AFP photographer.

Protester Sergio, 28, expressed his determination, saying they would stay as long as necessary for their cause. The protest's organizers urged people to join them, stating that either the rental system must fall or the government must fall. Abascal, who had lived in her home for 70 years, was forcibly removed from her apartment after a real estate firm raised the rent by 275 percent, making it unaffordable for her.

The eviction sparked outrage and galvanized protesters, with many highlighting the issue's relevance ahead of upcoming general elections. Socialists Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been under pressure to address the housing crisis, and the government is expected to approve a package of measures known as the "Maricarmen decree" at its next cabinet meeting, which would include automatic renewal of rental contracts and stricter eviction restrictions.

However, the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain, as Sanchez's government lacks a majority in parliament. Spain's housing market is facing a significant shortage of homes, with about 700,000 homes short of demand, driven by rising rents and population growth.