Eviction of 87-year-old puts Spain’s deepening housing crisis in the spotlight

Key Points:

• The eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal, forced out of her home after a 230% rent increase by an investment fund, sparked nationwide protests in Spain, with thousands demanding reforms to address the housing crisis.
• Rents in Spain have risen 80% over the past decade, far outpacing average incomes, while social housing comprises only 2.5% of the market, highlighting systemic issues in housing affordability and availability.
• Political divisions have hindered effective solutions, with conservative and far-right parties opposing eviction moratoriums, while the leftwing coalition Sumar pushes for rent freezes and expropriation of properties like Maricarmen's former home.
• Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez acknowledged the eviction as a social tragedy and pledged swift legislative measures, though regional governments, particularly Madrid's led by Isabel Díaz Ayuso, have resisted implementing tenant protection laws.
• Rights groups and union leaders call for stronger action against investment funds profiting from housing, urging reforms to prioritize citizens' right to housing over real estate profitability and prevent further evictions.