Thousands Converge on Lisbon Parliament to Protest Housing Crisis and Police Tactics
Thousands of protesters rallied outside Portugal's parliament in Lisbon to demand housing rights and condemn recent police crackdowns on activists.
POLICY WIRE — Lisbon, Portugal — Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the Portuguese parliament on Tuesday evening, brandishing cardboard houses, keys, and red carnations to voice their opposition to the nation’s escalating housing crisis and recent police conduct.
The crowd chanted slogans against fascism and sang “É a nossa morada”—meaning “This is where we live”—while displaying banners that demanded stronger housing protections and criticized the treatment of activists. The demonstration featured an appearance by singer Marisa Liz, who joined the assembly in solidarity.
Tensions have been high following recent police operations in Lisbon and Porto, where officers dismantled protest camps using batons and conducted dozens of arrests. While activists reported that 60 individuals sustained injuries during these encounters, police officials stated that only seven minor injuries occurred.
President António José Seguro has publicly addressed the violence, calling for open dialogue and stating that he is awaiting the outcome of formal investigations. Meanwhile, law enforcement authorities have defended their tactical response as proportionate to the situation.
The protesters are demanding that the government reverse its current policy trajectory, specifically opposing plans to simplify eviction procedures and the removal of rent caps on new rental agreements. The gathering reflects a broader frustration with the country’s leadership as the cost of living continues to rise.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
