Protests on La Palma: Citizens demand housing and environmental protection!

Protests on La Palma: Citizens demand housing and environmental protection!

On May 19, 2025, around 600 people demonstrated in Santa Cruz de La Palma to draw attention to the pressing issues of housing shortages and environmental destruction. The protest, described as historic, took place in the shadow of the consequences of the Tajogaite volcanic eruption, which permanently changed the island in September 2021. Among the demonstrators were concerned citizens demanding measures to protect their island territory and calling for a new model of tourism and development. The criticism was primarily directed at speculating entrepreneurs and politicians whose decisions have severely affected life on the island. This unrest is growing given the current uncertainties in the country, particularly regarding the outstanding state budget and unimplemented tax breaks for the islanders, such as la-palma24.info reported.

Life on La Palma has not only changed physically due to the natural disaster. Many families continue to live in containers or with relatives as the lack of living space is a key problem for affected households. Despite some progress in reconstruction, many of those affected have not yet been able to return to self-sufficiency. Infrastructure has been restored in some areas, but closed roads and isolated water supply problems remain. The re-inhabitable areas in zones that were spared from the lava offer people hope, but the psychological stress caused by the traumatic experiences of the eruption still remains lapalma1.net described in detail.

Protests and political reactions

The recent protests are an expression of increasing discontent among the population. While the demonstrators are calling for fundamental changes and the protection of their living space, the island's president, Sergio Rodríguez, expressed skepticism about the fears expressed. The next event has already been announced for May 23rd in El Paso.

In addition to the social tensions, the health service warned of staff shortages on La Palma. The tense staffing situation in hospitals is made even worse by holiday planning for the summer. Trade unions criticize the unattractive working conditions and the brain drain, which further endangers the island's health services. In particular, the lack of fair job offers could lead to new nurses leaving La Palma.

Serious accidents and safety situation

The situation on the island is not only characterized by social tensions. A tragic accident on the LP-201 road in Breña Alta recently claimed the lives of two men (40 and 44 years old). A 40-year-old woman was seriously injured and taken to La Palma General Hospital. The Civil Guard has opened an investigation into this incident and all public events were canceled on May 18 out of respect for the deceased.

In summary, La Palma has a long road to normalization following the Tajogaite volcanic eruption. While the focus remains on the fight against the housing crisis and environmental degradation, the resilience of the island's residents and the support from government and European funding programs is a bright spot in this challenging time.