Spain: government announces measures to stem housing crisis

A measure announced in the midst of social protest. The Spanish government announced on Tuesday September 29 the suspension of housing evictions until 2030, and the automatic renewal of rental contracts, in order to stem the housing crisis hitting the country. Since Saturday, several hundred demonstrators and activists have occupied part of the very touristy Puerta del Sol, a large square in the heart of Madrid, to denounce real estate "speculation" and demand a more protective law for tenants.

These two measures, announced on

“A great day for tenants and small owners”

The minister also indicated that the government wanted to implement, as part of these measures, "the ban on vulture funds from purchasing housing". These investment funds, like short-term tourist rental platforms, such as Airbnb, are in the sights of demonstrators for the right to housing. They accuse them of driving up prices by buying real estate in Spain and reducing supply. The executive also plans in particular “the supervision of seasonal rentals and room rentals”, according to Mónica García Gómez.

“Magnificent agreement. Today is a great day for tenants and small owners. And bad for speculators,” Félix Bolaños, a minister, said on X.