Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a snap general election for November 29. The decision, communicated during a televised address to the nation on Monday morning, comes after right-wing parties in parliament rejected emergency legislation aimed at tackling the country's housing crisis.
The minority government had proposed these emergency measures in an attempt to stem nationwide protests and growing public anger over housing. The legislative defeat follows a weekend of consultations and ongoing protests across the country.
Beyond the housing issue, Sánchez has faced rising challenges to his authority. Pressure on his government has mounted due to a migration crisis in Ceuta and several corruption scandals involving figures close to his inner circle and the Socialist Party.
The move marks a departure from Sánchez's previous insistence that he would serve out his full four-year term, with elections originally scheduled for 2027. Facing the electorate at this time may be risky, as the Socialist Party is currently trailing in opinion polls.