87yo Evicted: Madrid Erupts

An 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen Abascal, was evicted from her apartment in the Retiro quarter of Madrid on a Wednesday, sparking widespread protests and calls for better social protections in the city. Abascal had lived in the apartment since the 1950s, but her long-term lease had expired, prompting the real estate organisation that owns the apartment to evict her.

The eviction has become a symbol of the housing crisis in Madrid, with protesters holding signs and banners in support of Abascal, reading 'Maricarmen vs the Vultures' and 'Maricarmen, you are not alone'. The protests, which began as an attempt to stop Abascal's eviction, have morphed into a broader movement calling for better social protections in the city.

The government and the Madrid city council are blaming each other for the eviction, with neither side taking responsibility for the situation. The city council claims that the government is at fault, while the government argues that the city council is to blame.

## What happens next The protests are ongoing, with demonstrators demanding action from the government and city council to address the housing crisis in Madrid. The city is facing a housing deficit, making it one of the most pressing issues for residents. The eviction of Maricarmen Abascal has brought attention to the need for better social protections in the city, and it remains to be seen how the government and city council will respond to the growing pressure.

The Retiro quarter, where Abascal's apartment is located, is one of the most desirable areas in Madrid, known for its chic streets and proximity to the Prado Museum and the Golden Triangle of Art. The eviction of a long-time resident like Abascal has highlighted the need for affordable housing options in the city, and the protests are likely to continue until the government and city council take action to address the issue.

## Why it matters The eviction of Maricarmen Abascal is not just a personal tragedy, but a symbol of the broader housing crisis in Madrid. The city's housing deficit has made it difficult for residents to find affordable housing options, leading to a growing sense of insecurity and uncertainty. The protests sparked by Abascal's eviction are a call to action for the government and city council to address the issue and provide better social protections for residents. The outcome of the protests and the response of the government and city council will have a significant impact on the lives of residents in Madrid, and will be closely watched in the coming days and weeks.