Spain's youth demand government action on soaring rents
Several hundred thousand residents of Madrid and Barcelona took to the streets, expressing firm opposition to the high rental prices and demanding prompt government action.
The demonstrations occurred on Sunday, 13th October. The largest took place in Madrid, where—according to the organisers' estimates—approximately 150,000 people marched through the city centre. Among the protesters were representatives of the left-wing party Podemos and leaders of several trade unions. "We want cheap housing. Now!", "We fight for a roof over our heads!" and "Everyone should have their home" were slogans displayed on banners.
Spaniards say "enough"
A similar demonstration took place in the centre of Barcelona. Participants in this march highlighted the issue of mass tourism, claiming it contributes to the rise in rental prices. One notable chanted slogan was, "Houses are for living in, not for making business!".
A significant portion of the protesters, both in Madrid and Barcelona, were young people. They demanded the resignation of Spain's Minister of Housing and Urban Policy, Isabel Rodriguez, accusing her of failing to reduce rental prices and of inaction regarding affordable housing programmes.
Protesters emphasised that rental prices in Spain's largest cities are rising rapidly and are significantly higher than the financial capabilities of the average citizen, especially the young.
Prices too high for Spaniards
In September, the average rental price of a flat in Spain was about 992 euros (over 3,600 pounds), representing a 9.3% increase from the previous year. In the Madrid metropolitan area, the average rate was 1,602 euros (around 5,800 pounds), and in Catalonia, it was 1,348 euros (over 4,900 pounds). Property purchase prices have also been rising by 8.7% over the last year.
Additionally, Spaniards are expressing their growing social frustration related to the rapidly increasing cost of living, which is reflected in mass protests across various cities.
