Spanish pensioner evicted from home of 70 years dies, sparking fresh outrage

Maricarmen Abascal, an 87-year-old Spanish pensioner, has died months after her forced eviction from her apartment of more than 70 years in September. The eviction, carried out by authorities who removed her on a stretcher, drew widespread condemnation and triggered nationwide protests across Spain.

Abascal had lived in the apartment for over seven decades. Her case became a symbol of Spain's escalating housing crisis, where rising rents and stagnant wages have left many vulnerable. The eviction sparked demonstrations in major cities, with protesters demanding stronger tenant protections and an end to aggressive eviction practices. Official figures show evictions have increased in recent years, disproportionately affecting the elderly and low-income households.

News of Abascal's death has reignited public outrage, with activists and opposition politicians calling for urgent housing reforms. The Spanish government, which has faced mounting pressure to address the crisis, is expected to face renewed scrutiny. International observers have also highlighted the case as emblematic of broader housing challenges in Europe. Further protests are planned in the coming days, as calls grow for legislative action to prevent similar tragedies.