The issue of protecting the rights of tenants and homeowners has once again taken center stage in Spanish society. The decisions made by the government this week may change the balance of interests between property owners and those in vulnerable situations. For many Spaniards, this is more than just a political debate—it’s a question of personal security and stability.
Sharp statements
The leader of the opposition Partido Popular, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, delivered a strong critique of the new anti-crisis measures aimed at preventing evictions. According to him, these government initiatives amount to unwarranted interference with private property. Feijóo compared the situation to practices seen in other countries where, in his view, homeowners’ rights are overlooked for political gain.
During a campaign event in Binéfar, Feijóo emphasized that he considers such measures a direct infringement on citizens’ constitutional rights. He stated that Partido Popular’s support would be given only to those provisions related to raising pensions, but not to those connected with the so-called ‘social shield.’
Division of opinions
The party confirmed its willingness to vote for pension indexation, but refused to support a broader package that included eviction protection measures. Feijóo drew a parallel with a supermarket scenario, stating that just as store workers are not to blame for difficulties, landlords should not be held responsible for tenants’ problems.
During the campaign, the opposition leader urged voters not to split their votes, emphasizing that this would give the People’s Party the opportunity to form a majority. He stressed that their project is aimed at the development of the region, while, in his view, the other political forces only hinder this process.
Decree details
After the so-called ‘omnibus decree’ was divided into separate parts, the People’s Party made it clear it would only support provisions related to pensions. The party’s secretary general, Miguel Tellado, confirmed that they would not back measures for eviction protection, considering them unfair to property owners.
In an interview, Tellado noted that the state should not shift responsibility for the social vulnerability of families onto property owners. In his view, such policies disrupt the balance of interests and could have negative consequences for the rental market.
Government response
The government, on the other hand, believes that failing to support the ‘social shield’ will lead to an increase in evictions. The Minister for the Presidency, Justice, and Parliamentary Relations, Félix Bolaños, stated that any political forces voting against the decree will bear direct responsibility for any future evictions in the country.
In addition to eviction protection measures, the decree also includes further social initiatives: assistance for those affected by natural disasters, improved retirement conditions for firefighters, and a ban on disconnecting utilities for vulnerable families.
Context and consequences
The question of supporting the decree remains unresolved: the government is seeking backing from both left-wing and nationalist groups in parliament. However, not all parties have taken a clear stance, and criticism from the opposition and some allies is growing louder.
In recent years, Spain has already faced waves of protests and public debate over the protection of tenants and property owners’ rights. After the COVID-19 pandemic, similar measures were introduced to prevent mass evictions, sparking mixed reactions in society. At that time, some of the measures were temporary, but the current conflict shows that the issue remains pressing and calls for new solutions. The question of balancing social protection and property rights continues to divide politicians and citizens, and the outcome of the vote on the new decree could prove decisive for the future of housing policy.
