Spain weighs ‘Mari Carmen decree’ after elderly woman’s eviction sparks protests

Spain’s cabinet is discussing a decree-law on Tuesday popularly known as the “Mari Carmen decree,” named after an elderly woman whose forced eviction made her a symbol of protests over soaring housing costs.

Mari Carmen, who has limited mobility, was forcibly removed from her home. Her case became a rallying point for demonstrators denouncing the sharp rise in housing prices.

The cabinet discussion marks a potential opening in a crisis that has drawn attention to the vulnerability of people at risk of losing their homes. The measure’s popular name reflects how closely her case has become associated with the protests.

The move is being presented as a result of community mobilization. However, the information available does not specify the decree’s provisions or establish whether it would directly resolve Mari Carmen’s housing situation.