About 70,000 march in Madrid over housing crisis on Oct 3
Spanish police arrested three far-right activists in Madrid after housing protests, while tenant campaigners called for a general strike.
- The Spanish government estimated that 70,000 people marched in Madrid on October 3 to protest the country's housing crisis.
- The protest was prompted by the Spanish parliament's rejection of new housing proposals the day before the march.
- During the event in Madrid, police arrested three far-right activists who tried to confront the housing protesters.
- As a result of the legislative defeat and protests, the Tenants Union announced plans for a general strike and the Prime Minister is reportedly considering a snap election.
Spanish police fired rubber bullets and arrested three far-right activists in Madrid on Saturday night, October 3, 2026, after tens of thousands marched across Spain over the housing crisis. The Spanish government put attendance at the capital’s protest at about 70,000.
Far-right activists try to reach Madrid housing camp
Far-right activists tried to reach housing protesters camped in Puerta del Sol, a central Madrid square, the Spanish government said. Some performed Nazi salutes.
In Valencia, in southeastern Spain, police used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse demonstrators during clashes. Officers removed about 30 protesters who had entered the City of Arts and Sciences cultural complex.
Housing protests in 50 other Spanish cities were peaceful. Heavy rain forced the cancellation of planned protests in Barcelona and nearby Hospitalet de Llobregat.
Tenants Union plans general strike after labour talks
The Tenants Union intends to call a general strike once discussions with labour unions have taken place, spokesperson Valeria Racu told reporters in Madrid.
Protesters in Spain carried placards urging a general strike after parliament rejected the housing proposals on October 2. The measures had been designed to address public anger over the eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid and wider housing problems.
“It’s a shame,” said Madrid protester Nando de Anguulo, 26, arguing that politicians should adapt to people’s wishes rather than the reverse. He said the situation could not continue.
Sanchez faces reports of a possible snap election
Spanish media reported on October 2 that Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez might call a snap election in November after the legislative defeat, and would assess the strength of the protests before deciding. Sanchez’s office declined to comment.
