Mexico City plans measures against gentrification after protests

Mayor Clara Brugada said that the authorities will propose a law to regulate rental prices and to create a balance between the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. The aim is to protect people from displacement and regulate short -term rentals.

causes of gentrification

Many residents report that they can no longer afford their residential areas due to over -tourism, short -term rentals and the influx of people and companies with higher purchasing power. Brugada announced that an "objective and strict methodology" is being developed to regulate temporary living space rents and to preserve the roots and identity of the community.

legal measures and enforcement

The city government also plans to establish an authority that is intended to enforce the rental law and punish violations. Brugada emphasized that life in Mexico City should not be a privilege for a few people, but a guaranteed right for all residents.

protests against gentrification

The announcement takes place a few days after the demonstrations on July 4, in which residents spoke out against the gentrification and the increasing living costs in the Mexican capital. Some associate these problems with the influx of foreigners from the USA and Europe.

peaceful protests and criticism of xenophobia

Although the demonstration was largely peaceful and reflected the increasing resentment of inequality in the city, vandalism occurred in wealthier districts. Some participants also used xenophobic rhetoric, which was criticized by President Claudia Sheinbaum as xenophobic. The group Frente Anti Gentrificación MX, which, among other things, organized the protests, rejected this characterization and explained that the protest aimed to draw attention to the need of those who are displaced from their apartments.

demand for reforms

"We are not against migration, because gentrification is not a problem of migration - this is a human right. We are against violence as a government model," spokeswoman Yessica Morales told CNN. According to Morales, housing costs in the country have risen by 286 % since 2005, while real wages have dropped by 33 %.

invitation to the dialogue

The mayor called on a dialogue on Wednesday. "I say to the people who promote the marches and mobilizations that we will have the necessary discussions with them all the more on this topic," said Brugada.

long-term gentrification in Mexico City

experts emphasize that gentrification in Mexico City has been an issue for decades and that it cannot be attributed to immigration. However, the increase in short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb and the introduction of home office during the Covid 19 pandemic have been enormously fueled the debate about gentrification in recent years.

Airbnb and economic influence

Airbnb defended its activities in Mexico City last week by explaining that it generated more than $ 1 billion in the local economy last year. Airbnb also argued that the guests who book accommodations also spend money in shops and services in the capital.

global protest movements and local restrictions