Housing And Social Policy News

Madrid Eviction of 87-Year-Old Maricarmen Exposes Spain’s Housing Crisis

An 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen, was evicted from her Madrid apartment on Wednesday after failing to pay rent set by investment firm Urbagestión. The eviction, which followed three previous court-blocked attempts, drew hundreds of protesters and celebrities. Maricarmen’s rent was raised from €500 to €1,650, exceeding her €1,350 pension. The incident highlights Spain’s severe housing shortage and rising rental costs, with Madrid rents up over 100% in a decade.