Andorra Housing Union Protests Rental Deregulation Bill Amid Fears of Rent Hikes and Evictions

The Sindicat d’Habitatge d’Andorra (SHA) held a protest on Tuesday evening against the government’s proposed rental market deregulation bill, urging residents to demand stronger protections amid fears of widespread rent hikes and resident displacement.

The gathering took place at 19:30 in Plaça del Consell General, featuring a manifesto reading, open-mic speeches, and support from other local associations. SHA spokesperson Rebecca Bonache described the reform—due in 2027—as a “programmed expulsion law” that favours landlords over tenants, exacerbating the housing crisis through speculative practices and market abuses. Speaking to El Periòdic on Monday, she warned that pressures are mounting immediately, with some residents “packing their bags and leaving” rather than waiting for full liberalisation. Bonache noted impacts across groups, including Andorrans, pensioners on low fixed incomes, young people unable to move out, and long-term workers who have built communities here but face unaffordable rents.

The union criticised the bill for failing to tackle access barriers, instead shifting economic burdens onto renters and enabling evictions without alternatives. They called for decisive measures: rent caps linked to income levels, bans on removals without housing options, and a public registry to boost transparency and curb abuses.

This mobilisation, one year after a 2023 rally that drew nearly 500 people, aimed to build momentum for a larger demonstration. In a pre-event social media video, SHA recalled past successes—“when we take to the streets, it makes a difference”—and highlighted ongoing “tricks and normalised abuses.” The timing was critical, as the April 8 deadline for bill amendments had just passed, limiting further legislative changes.

Bonache encouraged turnout to overcome fears and organise collectively, stressing affordable housing as an essential right for staying in the country.