Lisbon Housing Protestors Occupy Market Square, ADBP Condemns Violence
Lisbon’s housing protests escalated when activists stormed the Praça da Figueira market after being moved from Rossio.
📌 Key Highlights & Context
- Activists were moved from Rossio to the nearby Praça da Figueira market following a police raid
- ADBP condemned the removal of tables and benches as a violent breach of safety
- The incident fuels debate over the housing crisis and the use of public spaces for commercial events
Evolution of the Protests
Since October 17, the Acampada de Lisboa has set up a camp around D. Pedro IV Square (Rossio) demanding housing rights. A Christmas market was scheduled for the same area from November 13 to December 21.
A police operation in the early hours dispersed protesters from Rossio, directing them a few metres away to the Praça da Figueira market.
ADBP’s Reaction
The Associação de Dinamização da Baixa Pombalina (ADBP) labeled the incident as violent, citing the removal of tables and benches and the endangerment of safety. Private security intervened, preventing potentially more serious damage.
- The seizure disrupted market vendors’ activities.
- Security personnel quickly protected the stalls and seating.
- Authorities acknowledge the housing demand but stress that commercial events must not clash with public space usage.