Mallorca faces another 'summer of discontent' as anti-tourism protests escalate

Last summer, the favourite Spanish getaway of Mallorca faced a significant backlash with 20,000 residents marching to protest against the impact of tourism on soaring rent costs and overcrowding. This year seems set for similar turmoil as activists gear up for another 'summer of discontent'.

The campaign group Menys Turisme, Mes Vida (Less Tourism, More Life) is orchestrating a major summit this weekend filled with workshops, speeches, and roundtables aimed at addressing the challenges posed by what's anticipated to be yet another bumper holiday season of tourism in the Balearic islands. The discussions are set to revolve around crucial issues such as the deepening housing crisis, unemployment, and the environmental toll of mass tourism.

In an impassioned declaration, the group blasted the Balearic officials for prioritizing profits over the community, asserting: "After seeing the government's new tourist campaign, the announcements of billion-dollar investments, and the boom in property speculation and luxury tourism, it's clear that policies only favour land liberalisation and business interests."

Furthermore, Less Tourism, More Life has openly condemned the inefficacy of past attempts at fostering sustainable tourism. These efforts have barely reduced the influx of visitors or curbed the surge of transient lettings that render housing in the local market too costly for many. The previous year witnessed a historic high, with Mallorca welcoming more than 15 million tourists.

The resurgence of anti-tourism sentiments in the Balearic Islands is gathering momentum as both the Balearics and the Canary Islands join forces to confront pressing issues stemming from a surge in visitor numbers. According to the Majorca Daily