Protests in the vacation paradise - Demo on Mallorca: Less tourism, more living
On the most popular holiday island in Germany, Mallorca, locals are planning to protest against the excesses of mass tourism once again. The organization "Less Tourism, More Life" has called for a protest in the island capital Palma. Demonstrations are also planned on other Balearic islands. This is the third such demonstration on the island this year.
According to police estimates, around 10,000 people attended the most recent protest under the slogans "Say no!" and "Mallorca is not for sale!" Organizers claimed there were 25,000 participants. Unrest has also been reported in other Spanish tourist metropolises like Barcelona and Málaga, as well as on the Canary Islands.
Don't saw at the branch you're sitting on
Tourism is crucial for Mallorca's economy, accounting for 45% of the island's economic output. The tourism industry warns against sawing off the branch we're sitting on.
However, demonstrators complain that only a minority benefits, while the majority receives low-wage jobs in the tourism industry that don't cover the increasingly expensive housing costs. Traffic jams, noise, and dirt are also causing frustration for the islanders.
Even on the mainland, tourism is too much for some
Thousands of demonstrators in Barcelona called for restrictions on the tourism industry at the beginning of the month due to rising housing and living costs. Guests at popular restaurants for tourists were sprayed with water pistols. Signs read "Tourists go home. You are not welcome" or "Reduction of tourism now!".
In the past few weeks and months, similar demonstrations have taken place in Málaga and on the Canary Islands. It's not just housing costs, but also environmental pollution, traffic jams, overcrowding, water shortages, and the overburdening of the healthcare sector and waste disposal that are causing concern for many locals.
This year, 33.2 million foreign tourists have already been counted in the country with a population of nearly 48 million. Estimates predict that there could be as many as 91 million foreign tourists by the end of the year, injecting around 125 billion Euros into the Spanish treasury. The tourism boom is currently providing Spain with significantly better economic data than, for example, Germany.
- Despite the economic significance of tourism to Mallorca, with it contributing to 45% of the island's economic output, the tourism industry in Spain's most popular vacation island is under scrutiny due to concerns about its impact on local society.
- The International Tourism Fair, held annually in Barcelona, showcases Spain's tourism offerings, including popular destinations like Mallorca, Malaga, and the Canary Islands.
- While Mallorca is often referred to as a vacation paradise, some residents and activists argue that its status as a tourist hotspot has led to social and environmental issues, prompting demonstrations in Palma and other parts of the island.
- Barcelona, known as a vibrant cultural and tourist destination, has experienced its own challenges with the tourism industry, leading to protests demanding restrictions and addressing issues such as rising housing costs and overcrowding.
- Looking beyond Spain, other vacation islands like the Canaries also face similar concerns with the tourism industry, leading to demonstrations and calls for change to protect the local environment and quality of life for its residents.
- As Spain continues to attract record numbers of tourists – over 33 million foreign visitors in 2023 and projected to reach 91 million by the year's end – societies in popular vacation islands like Mallorca, Malaga, and the Canary Islands must find a balance between economic growth and preserving the well-being of locals.
