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Madrid Airport Homelessness Crisis Deepens as Authorities Clash Over Responsibility

With no effective solution in place, Aena threatens legal action against Madrid City Council while the Defender of the People investigates the handling of the situation.

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El Defensor del Pueblo ve "preocupante" la situación de personas sin hogar en Barajas
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Varias personas sin hogar pernoctan en la T-4

Overview

  • Between 300 and 500 homeless individuals are sheltering nightly at Madrid's Barajas airport, a surge far exceeding past levels and straining resources.
  • Aena has formally demanded that Madrid City Council fulfill its social service obligations and may pursue legal action for inaction.
  • The Comunidad de Madrid has called on national ministries to join coordination efforts, while the Defender of the People has opened an investigation into Aena's management and inter-administrative coordination.
  • No public authority has identified the profiles or needs of the homeless population; an NGO census has been conducted but remains unpublished.
  • Operational and safety concerns, including alleged bedbug infestations and security incidents, continue to exacerbate tensions and impact the airport's functionality.