Italy under a heatwave, hundreds take shelter in tents in Rome amid Meloni government measures against squatting

Hundreds of people, including children, older adults and people with disabilities, have ended up on the streets of Rome following the evacuation of the “Spin Time Labs” social center, which was closed after a small fire.

For more than a week, residents have been staying in tents set up in front of the building in the Esquilino district, as Italy faces high temperatures. They describe the situation as difficult and are calling on institutions to provide them with housing.

Established in 2013, “Spin Time Labs” had over the years become a community center providing food, social services, support for migrants, workspaces and special activities for children.

The intervention by the Italian authorities came after the fire on July 29, when the building was evacuated and safety measures were put in place. According to police, the checks were necessary to determine whether the property was safe, but residents claim the incident was used as a pretext to remove them.

The incident has also sparked clashes on Italy’s political scene. Giorgia Meloni’s government has pursued a hard-line policy toward occupied buildings, which it regards as a legal and security issue. On the other hand, local political representatives and social organizations are calling for a housing alternative to be made available to those evacuated.

For the time being, the Rome City Council has provided tents, food, water and medical assistance. At the same time, the possibility of purchasing the building is being assessed, with the aim of preserving its social role.

Spin Time residents consider the center essential support for hundreds of people who, because of their financial difficulties, cannot afford housing costs. Their demand is to be allowed to return to the building or for institutions to guarantee them a long-term solution.