Revolt of the Taxi Drivers: Rome Braces for Nationwide Strike
Get ready, Rome! Taxi drivers across Italy are gearing up for a massive protest on 21 May, as trade unions officially announced a nationwide strike. The decision comes after failed negotiations with Industry Minister Adolfo Urso in the heart of Rome, leaving the drivers feeling unheard and unsatisfied.
The unions were seeking reassurances from the minister regarding various issues that have been plaguing their sector, with a particular focus on the regulation of digital platforms. Unfortunately, it seems like their concerns fell on deaf ears, prompting them to take drastic action.
In response, Minister Urso highlighted the “limited availability” of taxis in major Italian cities, sparking tension with the powerful taxi unions that have been vehemently opposing the issuance of new licenses. This ongoing struggle between the government and the taxi drivers has reached a boiling point, leading to what promises to be a monumental demonstration in the streets of Rome.
Set to coincide with the strike, cab drivers are planning a massive rally in Rome, fully supported by Italy’s main taxi trade unions. Despite the disruptions, services will be ensured for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, disabled, and sick, showcasing the drivers’ commitment to their community.
This isn’t the first time taxi drivers have taken to the streets in protest. Just last October, a 24-hour strike rocked the country in response to the government’s controversial Asset decree, which aimed to address the increasing demand for taxis by issuing more licenses to city authorities.
While cities like Milan have already taken steps to address the shortage by issuing new licenses, Rome is preparing for a massive influx of pilgrims and tourists during Jubilee Year 2025, prompting Mayor Roberto Gualtieri to announce the issuance of a thousand new permanent taxi licenses. The stakes are high, and the battle between the drivers and the authorities is far from over.
Stay tuned as the revolt of the taxi drivers unfolds on the streets of Rome, shaping the future of transportation in Italy.
