Spain’s housing crisis puts pressure on Sánchez government

Mass protests over soaring housing costs in Spain are putting additional pressure on Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government as it seeks to address a growing shortage of affordable homes.

The protests were triggered by the eviction of an 87-year-old retiree from her Madrid apartment, where she had lived for 70 years. Following a change in ownership, her rent was increased by 275% to €2,650, making it unaffordable for her, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

Landlords later agreed to restore the previous rent following public protests, but demonstrations over the broader lack of affordable housing have continued.

Seeking to ease the crisis, Sánchez has submitted a housing bill to the Council of Ministers for consideration. The proposed legislation would extend protections against eviction for vulnerable tenants until 2028, introduce restrictions on rent increases and provide tax breaks for residents in areas where housing costs are particularly high.

However, securing parliamentary approval could prove difficult. Sánchez’s minority government would need to win support from both left-wing allies and lawmakers representing property owners’ interests.

The housing crisis adds to political pressure on Sánchez, who is also facing an unresolved migration situation in Ceuta and a series of corruption scandals involving members of his family and close associates.

By Sabina Mammadli