Pedro Sánchez calls a snap election in Spain following massive protests over the housing crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called early parliamentary elections for November 29, amid widespread protests sparked by Spain’s housing crisis. The announcement was made in a televised address to the nation from the Moncloa Palace in Madrid.

“The time has come for the Spanish people to decide what future they want for themselves and for their country,” Sánchez said, thereby justifying the decision to return responsibility for the country’s political direction to voters.

The calling of the elections comes less than 72 hours after the government failed to secure parliamentary support for two royal decrees concerning housing. The measures aimed to reduce the public pressure generated by rising costs and the difficulty of accessing housing.

In recent days, hundreds of protesters have set up tents in Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s central square, demanding action from the authorities. Over the past week, the demonstrations have also spread to other Spanish cities, amid calls for urgent measures in the housing sector. The November 29 elections will determine the future of the government and the political response to this crisis.