The government of Mexico City announced a plan on Wednesday aimed at tackling gentrification, following a week of intense protests over rising housing costs linked to the influx of foreigners, commonly known as “digital nomads,” in the capital.
Mayor Clara Bulgada stated that landlords would be restricted from increasing rents beyond the rate of inflation. The city plans to provide a list of “reasonable rentals” to help residents.
Bulgada emphasized the intention to engage with the community regarding this plan, seeking to develop legislation that supports affordable renting options.
Experts noted that the protests earlier in July reflected public frustration over government failures and the aggressive marketing aimed at attracting digital nomads, many of whom work remotely for overseas companies from Mexico City.
During the protests, crowds gathered in tourist-heavy districts, but things turned chaotic when a few individuals vandalized shops and confronted foreigners.
President Claudia Sinbaum criticized the xenophobic elements evident in the demonstrations, asserting that such behavior is unacceptable even when responding to legitimate concerns like gentrification.
Sinbaum said, “The xenophobic display seen in that protest must be condemned. No one can assert, ‘We’re out of our country,’ even in the context of issues like gentrification.”
Many locals have expressed frustration with rising costs in their neighborhoods, an outcome expected from initiatives started by Sinbaum, the mayor since 2022. While concerns about short-term rentals were raised, partnerships with Airbnb and UNESCO have also been formed to boost tourism and appeal to digital nomads.
During the protests, demonstrators carried signs saying “Gringo: Stop stealing our home” and “Housing regulations now!”
Some activist groups are already calling for further protests this weekend.
