Spain’s central bank, part of the Eurosystem since 1998
An 87-year-old Madrid tenant has reached a deal with her landlord to return to the flat she occupied for seven decades after nationwide protests. The agreement has capped her rent near her long-standing payment for eight years and has pushed the central government to prepare emergency housing measures for a parliamentary vote this week (30 Sep 2026).
Spain’s parliament has rejected two housing decrees aimed at curbing soaring rents and protecting vulnerable tenants. Protests have erupted across Madrid and other cities, driven by the eviction of an 87-year-old pensioner, Maricarmen Abascal, and a demand for bold housing reform. Prime Minister Sanchez is pressing for a broader progressive majority to push through reforms, while opposition parties warn of higher rents and less homes if measures pass.