Portuguese authorities evacuated another protest camp in Lisbon on Sunday, following a demonstration attended by thousands of people

Portugal is facing a severe housing crisis, and thousands of people protested in Lisbon on Saturday against rising prices and rents. The demonstrations continued as housing costs have risen sharply since 2017, particularly affecting young people and low-income households.

After marching through the capital’s center, protesters set up more than 50 tents in Rossio Square. At around 4:30 a.m., dozens of police officers, some accompanied by dogs, moved in to clear the camp. After three warnings, law enforcement used shields and batons to disperse people defending the tents. Smaller camps were also dismantled in Dom João I Square in Porto.

The police intervention prompted criticism after dozens of people were also arrested during evictions carried out a week earlier. Socialist lawmaker Pedro Delgado Alves said the protest in Rossio had been peaceful and that the use of force was unjustified.

Protesters are calling for the withdrawal of a bill that facilitates evictions and removes rent caps for new contracts. Prime Minister Luis Montenegro rejected withdrawing the bill but said it could be amended before the final vote. The Socialists are calling for consultations with the opposition and demonstrators.