Mallorcan locals express discontent over rampant tourism
People from different nationalities such as Dutch, British and German, among others, are flocking together on the island of Mallorca. The islands are getting more and more congested, and the local population is feeling like they're being pushed toward their breaking point. Now, they've had enough. About 10,000 people marched through the capital city, Palma, to communicate their feelings: "Our island is not for sale."
Massive protests took place against the seemingly unending tourism in Mallorca. As the sun set, the crowd gathered in the heart of the island's capital to send a clear message. The police reported that 10,000 protesters were in attendance. This far surpassed their initial predictions, according to "Diario de Mallorca."
The group "Banc de Temps de Sencelles," which is vocal about the escalating visitor numbers and vacation homes, organized the protest. They attribute the housing crisis on Mallorca and the "destruction" of the Spanish island to the ever-growing number of visitors and holiday homes.
The demonstrators, which included families with children, students, and retirees, held up signs saying "Who loves Mallorca doesn't destroy it" as they marched along the Passeig del Born promenade. Several labor unions, environmental groups, and community initiatives joined the procession.
Tragically, the protest was marred by a restaurant collapse at Ballermann on Thursday when four people, including two young German women, lost their lives. The residents of this area, predominantly filled with German tourists, believe that many buildings in the region are unfit for mass tourism.
It's undeniable that the tourism industry is integral to the island's economy. In fact, it's responsible for 45% of Mallorca's economic output. However, increasingly, voices are emerging, questioning the need for unlimited numbers of visitors.
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The demonstrations against uncontrolled tourism in Mallorca were mainly led by local organizations like "Banc de Temps de Sencelles," who blame the increase in visitors and holiday homes for the housing crisis and the "destruction" of the island. Amidst these protests, the Spanish tourism industry, responsible for 45% of Mallorca's economy, faces growing criticism from the local population, including vocal groups of tourists themselves, who express concerns about the impact of overtourism on the island's environment and culture.
Source: www.ntv.de
