Protests over housing flare in Spain after relief measures rejected

Tens of thousands of Spanish citizens rallied in Madrid and other urban centers on Saturday, protesting against the rejection of housing relief measures by lawmakers. The demonstrations followed the evictions of long-term residents, including 87-year-old pensioner Maricarmen Abascal, who was recently forced out of her Madrid apartment.

The rejection of the government's proposed measures, which included automatic renewal of tenancy contracts and restrictions on evictions of vulnerable renters, has reignited concerns over Spain's rapidly escalating housing crisis. The Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez faces a mounting political challenge as his minority government's survival comes into question.

Demonstrators, some engaged in a tent city occupation in Madrid, demanded affordable housing, stability, and the right to construct a decent life. Far-right protesters attempted to reach the tent city but were thwarted by police. Valeria Racu, a spokesperson for the Tenants Union, called for a general strike and emphasized the effectiveness of people's power.

Housing reform has long been a pressing issue, with rents and property prices rising faster than incomes across the country. The rejected government bills faced opposition from the Catalan separatist party Junts, the lead opposition party Popular Party, and the far-right Vox party.