Thousands of Protesters Demand Housing Rights in Valencia

On October 20, 2024, the city of Valencia witnessed a significant display of public discontent as thousands of protesters took to the streets to demand the right to housing and to protest against the rampant touristification of the city. The demonstration, which was part of a broader movement titled ‘València s’ofega’ (Valencia is drowning), drew attention to the pressing housing crisis and the impact of tourism on the city’s residents.

The Protest

The protest saw four columns of demonstrators starting from different points of the city and converging at the Torres de Serranos, a historic landmark, at 6:30 PM. Here, protesters hung a large banner with the slogan “Por el derecho a un hogar” (For the right to a home) and a Palestinian flag, both of which were later removed by the National Police.

Demands and Slogans

The protesters, who numbered around 15,000 according to the Delegation of the Government, carried a variety of slogans and banners. Key demands included the regulation of rental prices, the halt of evictions, the creation of a public housing park, and the prohibition of residential sales to foreign capital. Other slogans such as “La vivienda es un derecho” (Housing is a right) and “València no está en venta” (Valencia is not for sale) highlighted the urgency and frustration felt by the community.

Anti-Tourism Measures

The protesters also called for Valencia to be declared a "tension zone" due to the overwhelming impact of tourism. They advocated for a strict regulation of the hotel industry, the prohibition of tourist apartments, and an end to the city’s promotion as a tourist destination. Additionally, they demanded a halt to the expansion of the port and airport, as well as the cessation of cruise ship arrivals.

Political and Social Support

The protest was supported by various organizations, including the Consell de la Joventut (Youth Council), CCOO PV (a trade union), PSPV-PSOE (the Valencian branch of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party), Compromís per València (a regional political party), and several neighborhood and cultural associations.

Papi Robles, the spokesperson for Compromís in the city council, urged the President of the Generalitat Valenciana, Carlos Mazón, to declare Valencia a "tension zone" immediately, although she expressed skepticism about the likelihood of this happening.

Peaceful March

Despite the strong emotions and demands, the march proceeded peacefully under intense police presence, concluding in front of the City Hall. The protesters symbolically rang the keys of their homes at the start of the march, emphasizing their struggle for housing.

This demonstration is part of a growing movement across Spain where citizens are increasingly vocal about their rights to affordable housing and the need to balance economic development with social welfare. As Valencia continues to grapple with these issues, the voices of its residents are becoming louder and more insistent.