Why has Spain's PM called a snap election?

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Monday that snap elections will be held on November 29, following nationwide demonstrations against sky-high housing costs. The decision comes after his minority government struggled to address mounting social protests, including deadly floods and a migration crisis. The government's attempt to quell dissent with an emergency housing package proved unsuccessful, as it failed to garner enough votes in parliament.

In his address, Sanchez urged the Spanish people to decide their future and role in the country, warning against a far-right coalition that seeks to curtail rights and freedoms. Recent polls show the center-right People's Party leading with 33.9% support, while Sanchez's Socialists polled at 25.7% and the radical-right Vox garnered 18%.

The opposition parties argue that the government's housing proposal, which aimed to freeze rents, make rental contracts indefinite, and regulate short-term tourist apartments, would only exacerbate the housing crisis. Despite Spain's strong economic performance, with the fastest growth among Europe's major economies and the lowest unemployment since the financial crisis, Sanchez's lack of parliamentary support highlights the challenges faced by his government.