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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called a snap general election for November 29, following mounting protests over rising rents and a housing crisis that has put his minority government under pressure.
The election, announced days after parliament rejected government measures to tackle the housing crisis, will come nearly eight months earlier than Spain’s previously expected election timetable.
The housing crisis has triggered nationwide protests, with demonstrators demanding action over soaring rents and increasing difficulty finding affordable homes.
The protests gained momentum after an 87-year-old woman was evicted from her home following a sharp increase in her rent.
Her monthly rent rose from €500 to €2,650. Although it was later reduced to €1,650, the amount remained €300 higher than her monthly pension.
Sánchez’s government introduced a package of housing measures in response to growing public concern over affordability, but the proposals were rejected by Congress.
The setback came as Sánchez’s minority government continues to face difficulties securing enough parliamentary support to advance its policies.
Sánchez, who has been prime minister since 2018, was not expected to face a general election until summer 2027.
The November 29 election will determine the composition of Spain’s next parliament and the government that will emerge from the vote.
Opinion polls currently place the conservative opposition ahead, although the formal election campaign has yet to begin.
The snap poll gives Sánchez an opportunity to seek a fresh mandate as he attempts to retain power amid growing pressure over housing and his government’s difficulties in parliament.
