Maricarmen decree halts first eviction in Barcelona

The newly published ‘Maricarmen decree’ has resulted in its first successful application, halting an eviction in the Sant Andreu district of Barcelona. The suspension follows a legal challenge by the Sindicat de Llogateres, which demanded the immediate application of the decree’s urgent measures to protect the social function of housing.

The decree, published in the Official State Gazette (BOE) following approval by the Council of Ministers, includes provisions for a prohibition on evictions until December 31, 2030. The specific case involved a resident named Macarena, who has lived in her apartment since 2017. A judge granted a provisional suspension of the eviction process in response to the legal filing.

While the decree is currently in effect, its long-term status depends on a vote in the Congress of Deputies scheduled for Friday. The upcoming vote will determine the validity of the decree and measures regarding the automatic renewal of rental contracts. Political support remains a key factor, with the outcome depending on votes from parties such as Junts and PNB.