Else Beekman
Residents of Mallorca are expressing their frustration with the overwhelming influx of tourists that flood their island every summer and beyond. Housing has become unaffordable, beaches are overcrowded, and traffic congestion is rampant. Despite previous demonstrations, another major protest is set for Sunday to highlight these issues.
The demonstration, announced in early June, is backed by unions UGT, CCOO, and STEI. They urge citizens to join the protest, advocating for an economic model that provides well-paid jobs and addresses growing livelihood insecurity on the island.
Declining quality of life
“Everything grows on the Balearic Islands except the quality of life,” said Xisca Garí, spokesperson for UGT Baleares. She criticised the current tourism model as unsustainable, noting that the economic benefits of tourism do not translate into improved social or family welfare. Instead, the influx of tourists condemns workers to poverty, forcing them to live in caravans and tents while enduring long, exhausting workdays.
Government intervention needed
The unions are calling for more government action to increase public housing, control rent prices in specific areas, and crack down on illegal tourist rentals. The high cost of living on the island partly explains the staffing shortages, as potential workers are deterred by the exorbitant housing prices. There is also a push to develop sectors beyond tourism, such as industry and healthcare, to reduce economic vulnerability.
Government urges peaceful protest
The regional government is concerned about potential incidents similar to recent events in Barcelona, where tourists were targeted by protestors with water pistols and restaurants were cordoned off with tape while patrons were dining. Government spokesperson Antoni Costa has urged protestors to respect tourists during the demonstrations.
Impact on tourism image
Daniel Escarrer, president of hotel association Exeltur, warned that the protests are damaging Mallorca’s image abroad, particularly in key markets where tabloids suggest tourists are no longer welcome. “That’s the worst that could happen to us,” he said.
Promotional video for the protest
Organisers have released a video to rally residents to participate in the protest on Sunday, 21 July. Furthermore, the video features a song calling for an end to rental boats and cruises, regulation of rental cars, and better management of nightlife in areas like Magaluf and Arenal, where issues frequently arise. It also advocates for more accessible housing and fewer cyclists on the roads.