Protesters vow to stay in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol as housing camp puts pressure on government

Hundreds of protesters remained in Madrid's Puerta del Sol on Sunday night, transforming a demonstration against the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal into a continuing housing camp in the city center. Around 100 tents were set up in the square after a Saturday protest march. The Madrid Tenants' Union organized assemblies and called for supplies such as sleeping bags, mats, food, and water.

Protesters vowed to stay until meaningful action is taken on rents and evictions, targeting Spain's government ahead of Tuesday's cabinet meeting. The camp grew from Saturday's march, with estimates of 25,000 attendees by the government and 300,000 by the union. Demonstrations were held in over 40 cities, echoing the slogan "Not one more Maricarmen."

Maricarmen was evicted from her home of over 70 years on Wednesday, sparking widespread outrage over rising rents, insecure tenancies, and the lack of affordable housing. The protesters sought stronger protection against eviction, rent controls, and indefinite rental contracts. Former Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias likened Maricarmen's treatment to Rosa Parks' in the civil rights movement, emphasizing the need for a decree that goes beyond cosmetic changes.