JAKARTA - Thousands of people in various countries are increasingly vocal about their right to decent and affordable housing. The surge in rental prices and limited access to housing has become a global issue, especially in major cities that face economic pressures and population density.
This situation was also seen in London, where thousands of people took to the streets on Saturday (18/4) in an action known as the National Housing Demonstration. The action demands more affordable housing and rent control.
According to a report by RIA Novosti correspondent, the participants in the action came from various backgrounds, ranging from trade unions, tenant associations, student groups, to community organizations. They gathered at Soho Square around 13.00 local time before moving to the city center.
During the action, the crowd voiced demands that the British government take concrete steps, such as limiting rent increases and intervening in the housing sector. Various banners were brought, including one that read "Housing for people, not profit" and a call for a rent freeze.
Organizers of the action said that average rental prices in the UK have jumped by almost a third since the pandemic. In addition, they also highlighted the living conditions that were considered unfit in a number of major cities, including London, where many families still live in places with low quality.
Not only that, Britain is also said to face a high level of homelessness compared to other developed countries, which further strengthens the urgency of improving the housing system.
"Other housing systems are possible. We can get affordable and safe houses," the organizers said in a statement.
The action was then continued with a long march to the city center, marked by protest symbols, including a puppet representing Prime Minister Keir Starmer as well as criticism of government policies that are considered to be in favor of property owners.
Security was carried out by dozens of police officers during the action. Until the end of the activity, no significant incidents were reported.
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