Tens of thousands march in latest Portugal housing protests

Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets of more than 30 towns and cities in Portugal to protest against surging rental prices, demanding urgent government action to address the country’s worsening housing crisis. Organised by the Casa Para Viver (A Home to Live In) platform, demonstrations on Saturday took place under the slogan “They will not steal our right to a home,” with protests in Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Portimao, Coimbra, Braga and other locations.

It was the biggest national demonstration since the social movement began weeks ago . Participants, ranging from teenagers to retired people, walked behind large banners, with the Lisbon march punctuated by drums, music, and chanting.

Protesters called for caps to be placed on rent increases, greater legal protection for tenants against eviction, and more affordable housing. They also demanded the reversal of proposed changes to rental legislation.