Spain sees massive protests after 87-year-old evicted amid soaring rents

An 87-year-old woman with a disability was evicted from her home in Madrid after an investment fund demanded a 230% rent hike, prompting large-scale protests across the country. About 10,000 people gathered in the capital on Wednesday, holding signs that read “Shame” and “Out with the vulture funds,” while a further 25,000 demonstrated on Saturday, some bringing tents and planning a camp in Sol plaza.

Political scientist Cristina Monge described the case as “the canary in the coal mine,” indicating it reflects broader problems in Spain’s housing market, where rents have risen 80% over the past decade and home prices 63%. The eviction highlights a trend of roughly 25,000 evictions per year, according to Monge, and underscores the limited supply of social housing, which accounts for only 2.5% of the national stock.

Labor union leader Unai Sordo called for investment funds to be removed from the housing market, saying homes should not be treated as corporate assets. UN special rapporteur on the right to housing, Koldo Casla, urged legal reforms, calling the prioritisation of real-estate profits over housing rights “impossible to understand.”

The junior coalition partner Sumar announced plans to push for expropriation of the evicted tenant’s former home and a rent-freeze package. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez pledged “swift” measures, labeling the eviction a “social tragedy.” Regional leader Isabel Díaz Ayuso downplayed the incident, noting it was one of the 25,500 evictions that occur annually and was authorised by courts.

Amnesty International Spain said the case is “not an isolated incident” and urged immediate, bold action beyond public statements.