Portugal sees fresh protests over government policies seen as worsening housing crisis

Thousands gathered in Portugal for nationwide demonstrations on Saturday, protesting the government's policies they claim are worsening the housing crisis. Demonstrators called for limits on rent increases, stronger protection from evictions, more public housing, and measures to curb housing speculation. The slogan "they will not steal our right to live here" echoed across cities like Lisbon and Porto.

Raquel Ferreira, from the housing-rights movement Casa Para Viver, told local media, "We need homes to live in, not homes to speculate on."

The protests come amid the government's adoption of a new bill that would make it easier for property owners to evict tenants. Jose Manuel Pureza, coordinator of the Left Bloc, stated, "What should happen, and what this massive mobilisation across the country is demanding, is the withdrawal of this draft law." The bill includes measures that could further exacerbate the housing crisis by speeding up eviction procedures, removing rent caps, and allowing landlords to demand higher upfront payments.

Casa Para Viver criticizes the government for viewing €2,300 as a moderate income, with over half of working people earning less than 1,000 euros. The organization argues that properties worth up to €660,000 are classified as moderate value, pushing prices up and rewarding landlords. In 2015-2025, housing prices relative to incomes in Portugal rose by 60.8%, the highest in Europe.

Lisbon and Porto saw the highest spikes, with house prices increasing by almost 20% between Q1 2025 and Q1 2026. Rents have also risen by 68% since 2020.

Economist Mike Langen attributes the price surge to a tourism boom and foreign investment. Golden visa program and digital nomad incentives have driven up prices, with foreign buyers and investment funds purchasing properties, including those in poor condition. Casa Para Viver calls for measures to tackle property speculation, an end to golden visas, incentives for remote workers, and an end to tax exemptions for property funds.

With an average salary of €2,200 a month, many Portuguese households struggle to afford rent, especially in Lisbon's city center. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs at least €1,100, leaving households with little disposable income. The government's proposed solutions, such as cutting taxes on new builds, restricting short-term rentals, and building 145,000 homes, are expected to have limited immediate impact.