The question of maintaining the eviction ban has once again become central to Spain’s political struggle. After last week’s failed attempt, when key social guarantees were rejected, the fate of thousands of families and pensioners hangs in the balance. The decision the government will make in the coming days could affect millions of lives and shift the balance of power in parliament.
Political Pressure
On Monday, representatives of left-wing parties increased pressure on the government, demanding it uphold key social protection measures. At stake is not only the ban on evictions of vulnerable citizens but also the indexation of pensions. After the opposition, led by Partido Popular (PP), Vox, and Junts, blocked the reform package, sharp debates erupted within the coalition over the next steps.
The leader of Sumar, the junior partner in the government, proposed splitting the pension and eviction protection issues into separate legislative acts but insists both decisions be made simultaneously. Representatives of Sumar, Podemos, and ERC are openly calling on socialists and right-wing parties to seek a compromise to prevent a weakening of social support.
Arguments From Both Sides
Opposition parties claim that extending the eviction moratorium allegedly encourages illegal occupation of housing. Authorities, on the other hand, argue it is about protecting the most vulnerable, not supporting ‘occupants.’ Within the coalition, compensation for property owners is under discussion, but independent MPs believe these measures don’t cover everyone affected.
Minister of Culture Ernest Urtasun emphasizes that any changes are only possible if the primary goal—protecting families—is maintained. His Sumar colleague, Minister of Social Rights Pablo Bustinduy, urges not to bow to opposition pressure or sacrifice the interests of the vulnerable for political deals.
Tactics and negotiations
Debates continue within the coalition over how to advance the reforms. Some propose voting on pensions and eviction protections together, others prefer handling them separately but without delay. Representatives from Izquierda Unida and Compromís insist that it is unacceptable to choose between supporting pensioners and helping the poorest. The issue of tax relief for those affected by natural disasters also remains on the agenda.
Negotiations between the parties are tense. According to ERC representatives, contacts with the government began the day before, and their stance is clear: a bill should not be rejected over individual disagreements if it contains measures important to society.
Possible scenarios
Support for anti-crisis measures depends on the government’s willingness to compromise. Podemos believes that if the opposition continues to block eviction protections, the government should submit new initiatives for discussion every month. Otherwise, in their view, direct financial support for tenants is the only option left to prevent evictions.
The issue of pension indexation remains a contentious topic: the incomes of nearly 10 million Spanish pensioners depend on this decision. Left-wing party representatives stress that they will support any measures aimed at increasing pensions, but are not willing to sacrifice other social guarantees for the sake of a compromise with the opposition.
Context and implications
In recent years, Spain has already faced heated debates over protection from evictions. In 2021, amid the pandemic, similar measures were extended following mass protests and pressure from public organizations. At that time, the government also sought a balance between the interests of tenants and property owners, resulting in temporary compromises. In 2024, after devastating floods, tax relief for those affected was discussed, but consensus between parties was not reached immediately. Each time, such decisions became the subject of fierce disputes, highlighting deep divisions in Spanish society over social justice and the protection of vulnerable groups.
