Activists glue shut lockboxes in Rome to protest rising tourism and rental prices

Activists in Rome have glued shut key lockboxes used for short-term rental apartments, targeting about 80 boxes in the Trastevere district. This action is part of a protest against rising tourism and increasing rental prices. The group claims that locals are being evicted as landlords cater to tourists, with rents reportedly rising by up to 80%. They argue that tourism has transformed Trastevere into a "theme park," with a significant decline in local residents. In response to concerns about short-term rentals, the Italian government announced that property owners must greet guests in person instead of using lockboxes. This new rule aims to enhance security, though it has not yet been widely enforced.