Italy's Beach Establishments Face EU Pressure for Public Tenders
In a significant protest against the Italian government's decision to comply with EU regulations, many private beach managers staged a symbolic strike early Friday morning. From 7:30 to 9:30 AM, parasols and sun loungers remained closed, highlighting the tension surrounding the upcoming public tendering of beach concessions. This strike, while largely symbolic, reflects the deep-rooted issues surrounding the management of Italy's coastline, where beach establishments occupy approximately 33% of public domain beaches.
The Controversial Concession System
The management of beach establishments in Italy has long been a contentious issue, with licenses typically granted without public competition for decades. These licenses are automatically renewed, often benefiting the same families who pay minimal rents compared to their substantial profits. The European Union's Bolkestein Directive mandates that these concessions be put out to tender, a move that Italy has been reluctant to implement, resulting in multiple sanctions from the EU. The current government, led by Giorgia Meloni, has struggled to balance electoral promises with the pressure from Brussels.
Future of Beach Concessions
As the deadline for the expiration of existing concessions approaches, the Council of State has reiterated that extensions beyond December 2023 are illegitimate. This has sparked division among beach operators, with some claiming overwhelming support for the strike, while others label it a failure. The Italian government's failure to comply may lead to legal proceedings from the European Commission, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing saga of Italy's beach management. Activists are also joining the fray, demanding public access to these coastal areas without the burden of fees, further complicating the situation.
