The Spanish government approved two extraordinary decrees on Tuesday to tackle the housing crisis in the country. This decision was made after tens of thousands took to the streets in Barcelona to initiate violent protests against housing conditions. The protests last night in Barcelona followed the eviction of an 87-year-old woman in central Madrid.
Protests and Violence in Barcelona
The protests in Barcelona, which began as a peaceful march, quickly escalated into violence. Groups of radical activists clashed with police, throwing stones and setting trash bins on fire. This violence reflects the intensity of public dissatisfaction with the housing situation in Spain.
Approval of New Measures
The government of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez approved measures similar to housing reforms that were rejected in Parliament last week. This legal setback prompted Sánchez to announce early elections for November 29 on Monday. In a statement, Sánchez said that 21 measures in these decrees include "some very positive additions" to the unsuccessful proposed laws.
The new government measures include protection for vulnerable individuals against eviction until 2030, regulation of room rentals, and a new tax on seasonal rentals between 32 days and 11 months. Additionally, speculative property purchases will be banned, and tax exemptions for landlords will be considered.
Despite strong economic growth in the fourth largest economy in Europe, high costs and a housing shortage have pushed many Spaniards out of the real estate market. Protesters are calling for more support for tenants, measures to combat fraud, and a ban on evictions when alternative housing is not available.
