María Carmen Abascal, an 87-year-old woman who was forced to vacate her home in the Ibiza neighborhood of Madrid after years of living there, passed away in a hospital in Madrid. This incident, which occurred on September 23, 2026, reflects the housing crisis in Spain and the government's failure to support vulnerable individuals.
Forced Eviction and Public Protests
On the morning of her eviction, María Carmen exited her home while neighbors and activists were trying to prevent her from leaving. This action led to widespread protests in Puerta del Sol, Madrid, where thousands chanted "Not another María Carmen!" These events prompted the government of Pedro Sánchez to issue two decrees to stop the eviction of vulnerable individuals, but these measures were quickly rejected by the Spanish Congress.
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The Housing Crisis and Political Consequences
The housing crisis in Spain has become one of the challenges facing Sánchez's government, leading to the dissolution of parliament and the announcement of general elections on November 29. This crisis is felt not only due to María Carmen's eviction but also as a deep social issue among the people. Now, many Spaniards are confronted with the reality of losing their homes.
María Carmen had lived in this apartment since her teenage years, and after her mother's death in 2005, her life became tied to this place. In 2018, a real estate company offered her €250,000 to sell her apartment, which was unaffordable for a retiree. In 2020, a new company that became the owner of the apartment sought to evict her, claiming that under rental laws, her right to renew the contract was only valid two years after her mother's death.
María Carmen's situation is symbolic of the plight of many Spaniards who are on the brink of poverty and isolation. Although Spain's economy has grown significantly in 2025, a quarter of the population remains at risk of poverty or social exclusion. This reflects an inability to meet basic needs such as housing, heating, and transportation.
The death of María Carmen, as a symbol of the housing crisis in Spain, is not just an individual story but a serious wake-up call for the government and society. This crisis has become a significant challenge not only in Madrid but across Europe.
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