Taxi Strife in Europe: Unions Call for Regulation and Fairness in a Controversial Sector

As the European elections approach, taxi drivers in major cities are planning to strike on 5 and 6 June, potentially causing disruptions. Unions representing taxi drivers have expressed their frustration with the arrests of some of their members and have called for stricter regulations in the sector. They also demand an end to illegal activities and greater control over technological platforms.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has invited all associations to a meeting on 4 June, which has been welcomed by the unions. However, the strike remains confirmed until the outcome of this meeting is known. The unions stress that clear and strict regulations are necessary to address the issues in the sector and ensure a safe and fair service for citizens.

As concerns about a shortage of taxis in major cities resurface, data from Istat shows that there are around 23 thousand taxis in circulation in Italy’s provincial capitals. However, numbers vary significantly between cities. Rome, Milan, and Naples face particularly acute shortages compared to other European cities where taxi services are more liberalized.

Consumer associations have criticized the strike, calling for reforms in the sector to address user complaints. Some municipalities have launched tenders for new taxi licenses as an attempt to tackle this issue, but it persists in many places leading to dissatisfaction among consumers and calls for change.

Despite these challenges, unions remain committed to ensuring that taxi drivers receive fair treatment and that their work is regulated fairly.