Tensions Rise in Barcelona: Eviction Protests and Housing Crisis

In recent weeks, Barcelona has been at the forefront of a brewing storm of social unrest, particularly centered around the city's escalating housing crisis and the eviction of long-standing community spaces.

The Antiga Massana Eviction

On January 28, 2025, a police operation to evict the occupied Antiga Massana building in central Barcelona resulted in significant tensions. The Antiga Massana, a former school building in the Raval neighborhood, had been taken over by activists in 2020 and transformed into a vibrant community space. This self-declared ‘Espai sota control popular’ (space under community control) offered a range of services, including a community gym, free language classes for immigrants, a school for underprivileged children, and a space for artistic and creative expression, all within an anti-racist and LGBTQI-friendly environment.

The eviction, carried out by the Guàrdia Urbana and Mossos d'Esquadra police with court authorization, led to clashes between protesters and police. Five people were arrested for assaulting police, disobedience, and public disorder, while 19 Mossos d'Esquadra agents were slightly injured. The occupants claimed that around 50 people were injured during the disturbances, with reports of multiple bruises, head injuries, and fractures.

Ariadna Garcia, a spokesperson for Antiga Massana, criticized the City Council and judiciary for what she described as a collusive effort to bypass ongoing appeals and judicial channels. The municipal government, which owns the property, had previously attempted to clear the building in October but was met with peaceful resistance from the occupants.

Casa Orsola: A Symbol of the Housing Crisis

The housing crisis in Barcelona has also been highlighted by the ongoing saga at Casa Orsola, an iconic apartment building. On January 31, 2025, hundreds of protesters gathered outside Casa Orsola to prevent the eviction of long-term tenant Josep Torrent, who has lived in the building for 23 years. The building was purchased by an investment fund in 2021, and since then, rental contracts have not been renewed, fueling speculation that the building will be converted into luxury tourist apartments.

The eviction was postponed due to safety concerns arising from the mass protests, with a new date set for February 4. However, activists have vowed to continue their resistance. This incident has drawn attention to the broader housing crisis in Barcelona, where rent prices have doubled over the last decade, and the cost per square meter has risen from €7.2 in 2014 to €13 this year.

Broader Context: Housing Crisis in Spain

The housing crisis in Barcelona is part of a larger national issue in Spain. Nearly 40% of renters in Spain spend over 40% of their income on rent and utilities, significantly above the EU average. Short-term rentals aimed at tourists have further exacerbated the problem, driving up prices and reducing the availability of affordable housing.

In response to the crisis, Barcelona's town hall has pledged to eliminate the city's 10,000 tourist apartments by 2028 to ease the pressure on local residents. However, with Spain ranking among the lowest in the OECD for public housing availability, the struggle for affordable housing remains a pressing issue.

Community Reaction and Political Criticism

The evictions and the broader housing crisis have sparked strong reactions from community leaders and politicians. Jéssica Albiach, leader of the left-wing Comuns, criticized the eviction of Antiga Massana, accusing Mayor Jaume Collboni of seeking conflict rather than negotiating with neighborhood associations. Albiach argued that the city is being sold out to business interests, driving residents out of their neighborhoods.

As tensions continue to rise, it is clear that the housing crisis in Barcelona is not just a local issue but a symptom of a larger societal problem that requires comprehensive and inclusive solutions. For expats and locals alike, the ongoing protests and evictions serve as a stark reminder of the need for affordable and community-driven housing policies.