Protests Delay Eviction of Barcelona Teacher Amid Housing Crisis

Josep Torrent, a teacher in Barcelona, has become a symbol of the city's housing crisis after his eviction was temporarily postponed due to protests against gentrification and over-tourism. Torrent, who has lived in the Casa Orsola building for over two decades, faced eviction after the property was acquired by Lioness Investments, which stopped renewing tenant contracts. His situation reflects broader housing issues in Spain, where rising rents and a chronic shortage of affordable housing are exacerbated by the tourism industry's expansion. Protesters rallied in support of Torrent, emphasizing community action as vital in combating housing insecurity. The protests highlight the tension between local governments and rising rental prices driven by luxury developments aimed at tourists. The incident underscores the urgent need for solutions to protect long-term residents from displacement amid increasing demand for short-term rentals.