An 87-year-old Madrid pensioner, Maricarmen Abascal, died after her eviction triggered nationwide protests over Spain’s housing crisis. Her eviction, which came as she had lived in her home for 71 years, sparked demonstrations that led to political changes including early elections.
Abascal’s eviction by a real estate firm that raised her rent by 230% became a symbol of Spain’s housing crisis. Demonstrators carried signs like 'Not a single more Maricarmen' and camped in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol. The incident led to a snap election as the government faced pressure to address housing issues.
The tenant union called the eviction a 'totally avoidable situation' and said the events marked a turning point in Spain’s history. The protests led to encampments, a snap election, and calls for housing reforms. The government’s attempts to address the crisis were rejected by right-wing and far-right parties.
The death of Abascal, who was hospitalised with exhaustion after her eviction, has been described as a 'murder' by some political figures. Her death has further intensified the debate over Spain’s housing crisis and the political consequences of the protests.