Spain is facing a serious housing crisis as rising rents and a shortage of homes make it difficult for ordinary people to find affordable accommodation. The case of 87-year-old Maria del Carmen Abascal has sparked public anger. She had lived in her Madrid home since 1956. After the property was bought by an investment company, her monthly rent reportedly increased from €500 to €2,650. Although it was later reduced to €1,650, she could not afford it on her pension. She was evicted with police assistance while sitting in a wheelchair, and her belongings were thrown onto the street. Maria later died in hospital on October 7, drawing widespread attention to the housing crisis.
According to the figures cited in the report, Spain faces a shortage of around 750,000 homes, which could reach one million by 2028. Average rents have risen sharply over the past decade, while holiday rentals, property investors and a limited supply of public housing have added to the pressure. In cities such as Madrid, many people spend a large part of their income on rent. The crisis has triggered protests in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and other areas. The government has proposed measures to protect tenants and improve housing affordability, but political disagreements have blocked some plans. The housing crisis has become a major social and political issue, with growing demands for affordable homes and stronger protection against eviction.
