Portugal housing protests continue as police response draws scrutiny

From Müvezzi - International (English) · 00:01:44

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Housing protests in Lisbon and Porto have persisted since 14 October, with thousands participating even as Storm Charles hit Portugal this week. Protesters consist of individuals dealing with harsh living conditions, eviction notices, and challenges in securing housing. According to Público newspaper, over 160 people were hurt and 99 detained in the two cities, including those shot in the face with rubber bullets. Footage has emerged showing police confronting demonstrators as they ran away. Over 200 lawyers have endorsed a statement accusing authorities of using excessive force and unlawful tactics, while calling for an investigation. Amnesty International has condemned the police for assaults and overuse of force, stating these actions led to physical injuries and hospital admissions. Residential property values have increased by 169% across the country since 2015, with jumps of 180% in Porto and 186% in Lisbon, whereas salary increases have not matched this trend, according to the article. It connects the housing emergency to the liberalization of the real estate sector following Portugal’s 2011 financial rescue, eased rental regulations, and the expansion of short-term rentals, which have driven up both rents and home prices in Lisbon and Porto. The conservative administration is pushing forward with laws that would grant landlords greater authority to increase rent, request higher deposits, and expedite tenant removals. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has described the demonstrations as “selfish” and implied they were a “foreign influence.” Since the start of the protests, he has demonstrated no indication of contemplating any compromises. Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas expressed concerns over how the protests were affecting a forthcoming German-style Christmas market. https://muvezzi.com/en/as-housing-protests-sweep-portugal-police-and-politicians-here-seem-bent-on-making-the-crisis-worse-ana-naomi-de-sousa-33797

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