The Spanish Government is racing against time to validate a decree in Congress that extends the moratorium on evictions, also known as the social shield, for vulnerable groups. This decree, which has been provisionally in effect since its publication on February 2, outlines an agreement with the PNV that allows evictions only in cases where the property owner has one or two homes. However, the method utilized to extend this extraordinary measure is coming under scrutiny from the courts.

The suspension of evictions was initially implemented as an exceptional measure following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, aimed at protecting vulnerable families amid employment destruction. Over the past six years, the moratorium has been progressively extended, culminating in the current decree. The Housing Law, effective since May 2023, already includes various protective measures for vulnerable groups, yet the way forward continues to generate legal questions.

As the government seeks to consolidate these protections for at-risk households, this legal challenge highlights ongoing tensions between legislative intentions and judicial interpretations. The outcome could significantly impact the future of housing security for vulnerable populations in Spain as the country navigates the aftermath of the pandemic and its economic repercussions.