The Government of Spain approves banning evictions from homes until 2030, following protests sparked by the case of an 87-year-old woman

Spain’s coalition government approved two decrees on Tuesday proposing a ban on evictions until 2030, an extension of rental contracts until 2028 and stricter rules for short-term rentals. The measures were adopted after protests sparked by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman from her home in Madrid.

The decrees take effect immediately but must be approved by Parliament within 30 days. The government led by Pedro Sánchez does not have a majority, making the support of right-wing parties, including the Catalan party Junts, essential. In April, a decree on extending rental contracts was rejected.

The package also provides for stricter regulation of room rentals and a ban on investment funds purchasing homes. The opposition warns that the measures could affect small landlords.

The case of Maricarmen Abascal has become a symbol of the housing crisis. The woman was evicted after the rent raised by the company that had bought the property exceeded the value of her pension. In the meantime, the landlord has agreed to let her return to the apartment.

The government’s decision comes amid an estimated shortage of 700,000 homes and a 12.2% increase in housing prices in a single year. Protests took place in Madrid, Barcelona and other cities.