Spain Faces Renewed Housing Protests After Parliament Rejects Measures

Spain’s parliament has rejected government measures aimed at easing the country’s housing crisis, prompting protesters to continue demonstrations and encampments in Madrid and other cities. The proposed package included protections against evictions of vulnerable tenants until 2030, an extension of rent freezes for existing leases and tighter rules for short-term rentals.

The measures failed after Catalan separatist party Junts joined the opposition in voting against them, arguing that the proposals could reduce housing supply and make the situation worse. The opposition People’s Party also rejected the decrees, calling instead for increased home construction. A separate proposal for automatic and indefinite renewal of rental contracts was also voted down.

The rejection has increased pressure on Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s minority government as housing costs remain a major concern, particularly among young people. The Tenants’ Union said protests would continue and called for larger demonstrations. Spanish media have also reported that Sanchez could consider calling a snap election, although his office has not commented on those reports.

Pic courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright