Deepening Housing Crisis Across Europe Sparks New Wave of Protests
An alternative event held in opposition to a massive real estate summit in Madrid and eviction incidents have triggered a pan-European housing rights movement and new political steps.
The deepening housing crisis in Europe has ignited a new pan-European movement, with international campaigners gathering in Madrid in opposition to a major real estate summit. The eviction of an 87-year-old wheelchair user from her home and the subsequent protests have brought new legislative measures onto the agenda in Spain.
Alternative Summit in Madrid
As the District summit, one of Europe's largest real estate events, got underway in Madrid, housing campaigners from 140 organizations worldwide gathered for their own alternative summit to protest the treatment of housing as a financial asset.
Eviction of an 87-Year-Old Woman
As campaigners arrived in the Spanish capital, Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old wheelchair user, was being evicted from the apartment where she had lived for seven decades. This incident sparked days of protests and the setup of a tent camp in the heart of Madrid.
Europe-Wide Price Increases
According to Eurostat data, housing prices within the EU rose by 53 percent between 2010 and 2024, while rents increased by 25 percent over the same period. In countries such as Estonia, Ireland, and Hungary, these increases reached much higher levels.
Political Impacts and Reactions
While experts point out that market failures disproportionately affect vulnerable individuals and minorities, Barcelona mayor Jaume Collboni warned that the crisis could drive voters toward the far right.
Pan-European Alliance and Campaigns
At the counter-summit in Madrid, campaigners launched a new pan-European alliance aiming to demand indefinite rental contracts and rent controls across the continent. Dozens of organizations also launched a petition calling for EU-level measures.
Spanish Government Actions
While the evicted elderly woman was permitted to return to her apartment, the Spanish government announced the approval of two housing decrees that include a ban on evictions until 2030 and regulations on temporary rentals.