Housing Protest Camp Grows in Madrid as Spain Heads to Early Election

A tent city has taken shape in Madrid's central Puerta del Sol square, with more than 1,200 tents now in place. Activists say that within days they built a self-organised space with named streets, a food service and security arrangements.

The wave of protest was sparked by the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal from the home where she had lived for more than seven decades. A wheelchair user, she was carried out on a stretcher. The case put a spotlight on fierce competition for housing across Spain, where residents compete with tourists, investment funds and short-term rentals. The investment firm that bought her home later said she could return without paying the 230% rent increase it had reportedly demanded, but the protests and encampments have continued.

Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called a snap general election after right-wing parties blocked emergency legislation aimed at easing the housing crisis. The vote did not have to be held until August 2027. Polls suggest the most likely result is a coalition between the People's Party and the far-right Vox. At the same time, the protests may give Sánchez a chance to keep his left-wing coalition in power.

Activists' demands

Alicia del Río of the Madrid Tenants' Union said the campaign will be shaped heavily by housing, and mentioned plans for a possible general strike in November. She urged lawmakers to adopt measures demanded by most voters. Rents have risen 80% over a decade, while housing costs have increased 63%.

Camp participants hope parties to the left of the Socialists will unite in a broad front. One volunteer pointed to the Spanish constitution, which recognises the right to decent and adequate housing for all. Others say the goal is to turn public support into concrete change and persuade people to vote.