In pro-Palestine hub of Athens, Israeli buyers increase local resentment
Summary
In Exarchia, a neighborhood in Athens known for its left-wing activism and pro-Palestine support, many apartments are being bought by foreign investors, especially Israeli companies, and turned into short-term rentals. This change is pushing out local residents and causing tension in the community.Key Facts
- Exarchia is a district in Athens famous for its radical left-wing politics and support for Palestine.
- Local residents have noticed many apartments are being bought by foreign investors and converted into short-term rentals like Airbnb.
- Israeli investors are believed to own more than half of the new rentals and company-run hotels in the area.
- Residents map these purchases and show a high concentration of foreign-owned properties marked on public records.
- The influx of short-term rentals is causing rising rents and forcing long-time tenants, migrants, and low-income families to leave.
- Buildings used to shelter refugees have been cleared, and local shops and schools are closing due to fewer residents.
- Activists have protested by painting slogans like “Airbnbs leave us homeless” and “Zionists not welcome” on buildings, showing local frustration.
- Foreign buyers, including Israelis, are the largest group purchasing property in the Athens area, according to a real estate agency survey.
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