Thousands rally in Madrid against soaring housing costs

Thousands of people marched through Madrid on Saturday to protest against surging housing costs, demanding stronger rent controls and more public investment in affordable homes.

Demonstrators carried banners calling housing a “right, not a luxury,” with organisers warning that rising rents and stagnant wages are pushing young people and low‑income families out of major cities.

The protest was part of a nationwide mobilisation, with similar rallies held in Barcelona, Valencia and Seville.

Campaign groups are urging the government to accelerate social‑housing construction and tighten regulations on short‑term rentals.

Photo: Confederation of Tenants’ Unions (CSI) – https://inquilinato.org/