Housing crisis triggers protests in Spain and economic strain in Argentina

A growing housing crisis is fueling social unrest and economic hardship across several regions. In Spain, the death of Maricarmen, an 87-year-old woman who passed away shortly after being evicted from her long-term residence in Madrid, has sparked intense protests. Activists have established a long-term encampment in Puerta del Sol to demand housing rights, leading to institutional conflicts and economic disruptions in the city center.

In Argentina, a study by Habitat for Humanity reveals that high housing costs are forcing families to make drastic lifestyle changes. Approximately 38% of respondents have reduced spending on essential goods like food, while 34% have had to choose between paying rent and covering basic needs such as medicine or clothing. Tenants are disproportionately affected, with nearly half reporting frequent difficulties in meeting housing costs.

Other regional tensions include families in Fitero, Spain, struggling against vulture funds that have significantly increased mortgage payments, and the emergence of new housing rights movements in cities like Alessandria, Italy, where activists highlight the gap between vacant properties and the rising cost of rentals.