A Demonstration With a Clear Purpose
Next Saturday, a large demonstration will take place in Barcelona, with the participation of several collectives, networks and housing groups that have been working intensively in recent months. In addition, the organizers are preparing for the II Housing Congress of Catalonia, scheduled for February 2025.
Beyond the Manifestation
Although the demonstration is a culminating moment, organizers emphasize that it is not an isolated event. The fight continues beyond this Saturday, with the aim of creating a space for debate and organization for all actors in the housing movement.
The II Congress: A Historical Opportunity
The II Housing Congress will take place in Granollers on February 8 and 9, 2025. This event seeks to be a meeting point for more than 500 participants, including groups from all over Catalonia, to discuss and coordinate actions against the housing crisis.
A Debate Process
Over the past two years, in-depth debates have taken place that have highlighted the limitations of the current movement. The committees created at the first Congress have facilitated the creation of a network that links different local groups.
The Objective of a Confederation
One of the most ambitious proposals of the congress is the formation of a confederation that unites various organizations, with the aim of overcoming localism and acting on a broader scale. The idea is that, by working together, the commodification of housing can be tackled.
Current Market Challenges
The current situation is alarming, with an increasingly tense real estate market and prices continuing to rise. Repression against housing groups has increased, and strategies that used to work are now insufficient.
New Fighting Strategies
A new form of organization is proposed that allows mobilizing a large number of families at the same time, thus increasing the pressure on large holders and financial institutions.
Various Territorial Realities
The congress will not be limited to Barcelona; the aim is to understand the different realities of Catalonia. This includes recognizing that, in rural areas and small cities, access to decent housing is equally problematic.
Expectations for the Demonstration
Organizers are expecting a large turnout for the demonstration, with the aim of highlighting the housing crisis and the impact it has on people’s daily lives. The slogan ‘Let’s lower rents’ seeks to draw attention to the urgent need for change.
Final Reflections and Future
The fight for housing is not just about prices, but a broader debate about human rights. The movement seeks to take housing off the market to ensure it is accessible to all, and this Saturday’s demonstration is just one step in that long journey.