Madrid housing protest enters 20th night in Puerta del Sol

Protesters in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol have reached their 20th consecutive night of camping to demand solutions for the housing crisis. During a recent general assembly, participants voted to maintain the encampment through a progressive de-escalation process rather than an immediate departure. The proposed strategy involves creating a political manifesto and eventually transitioning the movement from the central plaza to various local neighborhoods.

The protest has faced significant tension with local authorities. Madrid’s regional president, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, announced the temporary closure of the Sol metro station, citing concerns over unsanitary conditions and public safety. In response, protesters have defended their efforts to maintain cleanliness, characterizing the government's actions as a form of discrimination.

Incidents at the site have included the use of a historical fountain as a makeshift pool by demonstrators and the reported physical aggression against a reporter. The municipal government has issued numerous fines related to hygiene, alcohol consumption, and the use of public water sources, while continuing to call for the removal of the settlement.