Lisbon protesters sleep on streets in Rossio after police order removal of structures

Police ordered the removal of protest structures in Lisbon's historic Rossio square at 9 a.m., prompting right‑to‑housing activists to sleep on the streets rather than rebuild tents. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has proposed a temporary suspension of proceedings for the detained protesters, allowing them to avoid trial if they accept conditions such as community service, and their court appearances have been delayed until October 27, with three individuals absent from the latest hearing.

The movement, which began in Porto on October 10, intensified after parliament approved a new rental law championed by the minority AD government. The housing and infrastructure minister said the government is willing to discuss the rent law with the Socialist Party, while opposition parties continue parliamentary actions, with Livre planning an appeal and the Liberal Initiative calling a meeting of parliamentary leaders.