Last Saturday became a scene of maximum tension in Madrid and 50 other cities across Spain. What began as a peaceful mobilization for the right to affordable housing ended in violent clashes and multiple arrests in the city's historic center.
Why did this happen?
The spark that ignited the protests was twofold: the rejection in the Spanish Congress of housing decrees promoted by the Government and the dramatic eviction of an 87-year-old woman in the Retiro neighborhood. These events mobilized thousands of citizens in a climate of high social sensitivity regarding the rising cost of living and housing insecurity.
Estimated Turnout in Madrid
| Data Source | Estimated Attendees |
|---|---|
| Government Delegation | 70,000 people |
| Tenants' Union (Sindicato de Inquilinas) | 500,000 people |
The Conflict Escalates
The situation worsened when far-right groups, represented by Núcleo Nacional and Democracia Nacional, gathered in front of the Bank of Spain. Although they claimed to support social housing, their demands were marked by:
- Xenophobic slogans.
- Calls for mass deportations.
- Attempts to break police lines to attack protest camps.
Police Intervention
To prevent a frontal collision between the far-right and groups like Madrid Antifascista—who were guarding the encampment at the famous Puerta del Sol square—the Ministry deployed 500 officers from the Police Intervention Units (UIP).
Final Result: The day concluded with the arrest of three individuals linked to the far-right on Montera Street after they attempted to breach the security perimeter established by law enforcement.
Source: Imago