Thousands of people gathered in Madrid on Saturday to demand affordable housing and affordable rents in one of the most expensive cities in Spain. The protesters, organized by a coalition of social and political groups, marched through the streets of the capital chanting slogans like “housing is a right, not a business”.
The housing crisis in Spain has been exacerbated by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left many people struggling to pay their rent or mortgage. In Madrid, rents have increased by over 30% in the past five years, making it increasingly difficult for low and middle-income residents to find affordable housing.
The protesters called on the government to take action to address the housing crisis, including implementing rent controls, increasing the supply of affordable housing, and cracking down on real estate speculation. They also called for an end to evictions, which have been on the rise in Spain since the economic crisis of 2008.
The rally in Madrid was part of a larger movement across Spain calling for housing justice. In Barcelona, protesters have been occupying vacant buildings to provide shelter for homeless people, while in Valencia, activists have been organizing rent strikes to protest rising rents.
The housing crisis in Spain is a growing concern for many residents, who are being priced out of their own neighborhoods as rents continue to skyrocket. The protesters in Madrid are calling on the government to prioritize the needs of people over the profits of real estate developers and ensure that affordable housing is accessible to all.
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