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Dramatic eviction of 87-year-old Madrid tenant spotlights Spain's housing crisis
Reuters • • world
Key Points:
- An 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen Abascal, was evicted from her Madrid home of over 70 years despite protests and government criticism, highlighting Spain's ongoing housing crisis.
- The eviction occurred after an investment fund, Urbagestion, acquired the apartment and sought a significant rent increase, refusing to suspend the eviction despite legal and humanitarian appeals.
- Supporters protested the eviction, leading to tense confrontations with police who forcibly removed demonstrators blocking the entrance.
- Spain faces deep divisions over housing policy, with the left-wing government advocating stronger tenant protections and rent controls, while Madrid's conservative regional government favors market-driven solutions.
- The eviction coincided with a scandal involving Madrid's regional leader Isabel Diaz Ayuso, who is accused of misusing public funds to purchase a luxury penthouse, fueling activist anger during the protest.
