Spain's coalition government has approved a ban on evictions of vulnerable tenants until 2030, following widespread protests sparked by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman from her Madrid home. The measures, including automatic renewal of tenant contracts and restrictions on vulture funds, are set for parliamentary approval despite the government's lack of majority.
The measures were agreed upon after days of nationwide protests, with hundreds camping in Madrid's Puerta del Sol square. Health Minister Monica Garcia highlighted the significance of the agreement, calling it 'unimaginable a month ago,' while Justice Minister Felix Bolanos called for action against speculative housing practices.
The government faces challenges in securing parliamentary approval as the measures are split into two decrees. The Tenants' Union has criticized the division, demanding the full implementation of the agreed reforms. The coalition lacks a majority in a fragmented parliament, complicating the path to legislative approval.
The measures include a ban on vulture funds buying property until 2028 and a two-year extension on current rental agreements. The government has requested a special parliamentary session to expedite the process, but the success of the measures remains uncertain due to the political landscape.