Tents spring up in Lisbon as Portugal’s housing protests spread

Tents have popped up in Lisbon as housing protests spread across Portugal, echoing demonstrations in neighboring Spain. Hundreds of protesters gathered on Saturday night in Rossio Square, the bustling heart of the capital, after a march that drew thousands nationwide. The young demonstrators vowed to stay overnight, singing songs around the statue of King Pedro IV at the square.

Elena Costa, a 46-year-old social assistant, explained that the Portuguese working class that pays taxes and supports the country is under attack, losing its right to housing. Engineer Antonio Margado criticized the center-right government for a total liberalization of rents, with owners protected while tenants face increasing hardships. Housing prices in Portugal surged by 124% between 2015 and 2024, twice the EU average.

The protests began in Porto, with tents set up by dozens of protesters. At a previous Lisbon protest organized by the main CGTP union, demonstrators demanded better public services, pensions, wages, and measures against skyrocketing housing costs. Yolanda Silva, a 43-year-old civil servant, noted that wages, housing, and the cost of living are a matter of survival.

Prime Minister Luis Montenegro acknowledged the protesters' desire for answers and their outrage over potential omissions in public policies. However, he cautioned political opponents against importing instability and protest into Portugal, which lacks support in society. The surge in protests coincides with Spain's housing protests entering their fourth week, leading to calls for an early general election on November 29.