Portugal's PSP police force has asked demonstrators camped in Lisbon and Porto to dismantle their protest sites, according to Correio da Manhã. The camps were set up to demand action on housing rights, the outlet reported on Monday.
In Lisbon, protesters have been occupying the Praça do Rossio, according to O GLOBO, which described the action as a demonstration against the price of housing in the country. UOL Notícias reported that demonstrators took over a square in the Portuguese capital in protest against the rising cost of living.
The gatherings drew large numbers, with CNN Brasil reporting that thousands demonstrated in Lisbon against high housing and living costs.
Despite the police request, the protesters have decided to stay put. Público reports that demonstrators in both Lisbon and Porto chose to remain in their camps after the PSP called for them to leave.
The reports do not specify how long the camps have been in place, how many people are involved, or what response, if any, the authorities plan next.
The standoff puts housing affordability at the centre of public debate in Portugal, with the camps now drawing attention in both domestic and international outlets.
What to watch next: whether the PSP takes further steps beyond its request, and whether the protesters in Lisbon and Porto hold their ground.
