Spanish lawmakers reject government housing measure amid protests

As of October 2, 2026, Spain's Congress narrowly rejected emergency decrees proposed by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez aimed at addressing the country's housing crisis. The vote came after widespread protests following the eviction of an 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen Abascal, from her home in Madrid. Protests continued outside Parliament, with demonstrators chanting "shame" and slogans against lawmakers' decisions. The decrees, which included a ban on evictions until 2030 and rental regulations, were voted down by opposition parties including the People's Party, far-right Vox, and Catalan pro-independence party Junts. Sánchez's minority government faces increased pressure to call an early general election following this defeat. Despite initial support from some smaller parties, Junts raised last-minute concerns on Thursday, stating that the measures would reduce rental housing supply, drive up prices, and make it harder for low-income individuals to access housing. The rejection of these emergency measures highlights the ongoing political divide in Spain over how to address rising housing costs and unaffordable rents. Protests are expected to continue as public discontent remains high.