'This can't go on': thousands protest against housing crisis in Spain
4 hours ago
- Tens of thousands protested across Spain demanding action on the housing crisis after government measures were rejected by opposition in parliament.
- Protests were largely peaceful in 50 cities, but clashes occurred in Valencia where police used rubber bullets and teargas.
- The eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid sparked widespread anger and intensified the crisis.
- Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez may call a snap election in November, watching protest strength before deciding.
- Demonstrators decry high rents, with many spending half their salary on small rooms or facing rent hikes up to 230%.
- Far-right groups attempted to disrupt protests in Madrid but were blocked by police, leading to three arrests.
- The rejected decrees included a ban on evictions until 2030 and regulation of temporary lettings; opposition parties voted against them citing need for more construction.
- Protest organizers claim 'new energy' in streets, asserting that eight days of people power can achieve more than eight years of progressive government.