Thousands took to the streets on April 5, just as they did in Madrid in October last year
Credit: Shutterstock:Oscar Gonzales Fuentes
Saturday, April 5, was a day when frustrations about the lack of affordable housing in Spain spilled out into the streets as 40 separate demonstrations took place.
It all started at around 11.30am with the first protest taking place in Malaga, which was then followed by another in Madrid and on the Island of Mallorca at around midday. So far, the list of towns that have been protesting today includes Almeria, Cadiz, Badajoz, Caceres, Burgos, Cuenca, Donostia, Madrid, Malaga, Guadalajara, Seville, Jerez, Murcia, Logroño, Granada, Valladolid, Salamanca and the Balearics.
Further protests are planned for this evening in both Barcelona and Valencia, with this being considered one of the biggest organised rallies in support of housing reforms in living memory. For example, it has been reported that the protesters in Malaga numbered approximately 30,000 alone.
What is the housing situation in Spain?
Under the slogan ‘Let’s put an end to the housing business’, people are making their voices heard on the subject of housing being a fundamental right. While over-tourism may have exacerbated this situation, it is important to note that those living in Spain recognise the importance of tourism and are not using this as an excuse to alienate tourists in any way.
Moreover, this protest was to demand that landlords and property owners acknowledge that the rents they are charging are becoming unaffordable and need to be addressed. They are also urging the local government to take responsibility, as for many, this situation has spiralled into a crisis.
As a result, protesters are seeking an immediate 50 per cent reduction in rent prices, together with the introduction of indefinite rental contracts.
Over to you – are the citizens of Spain right to take to the streets in protest?