Spain Protests Housing Bill Defeat as Thousands Demand Rent Protections

Thousands of protesters marched in Madrid and other Spanish cities on Saturday, October 3, one day after the Congress of Deputies voted down two government decree-laws aimed at tackling the housing crisis. The legislation failed by a narrow margin of 178 votes against to 172 in favor.

The rejected plan included a freeze on rents until 2030, a two-year extension of existing contracts at fixed prices, and stricter rules for short-term tourist lets. The government introduced the measures following widespread outrage over the eviction of an 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen Abascal, from her home of 70 years.

“Eight days of popular power can achieve much more than eight years of progressive government.”

Protesters gathered outside parliament on Friday chanting "Shame!" and "Your profits, our misery." On Saturday, demonstrators in Madrid marched from the Puerta del Sol encampment, where activists have camped for roughly a week, to another central square. Organizers called for a general strike to pressure the government.

Authorities estimated the Madrid turnout at around 70,000 people, while the Tenants' Union claimed approximately 500,000 participants. Clashes were reported in Valencia during the day of action. Tenants' Union spokesperson Alithia del Rio told Reuters the encampments would expand to other neighborhoods.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez now faces a political crisis and may call snap elections as a way out of the deadlock. Protesters argue that eight days of popular mobilization have achieved more than eight years of progressive governance.