Protests in Mallorca: Local residents defend themselves against tourism!

Protests in Mallorca: Local residents defend themselves against tourism!

Palma, Spanien - Tourism in Mallorca is booming, especially among German vacationers. Every year the charming island attracts millions of visitors who want to enjoy the pleasant weather, the picturesque beaches and the glittering sea. However, despite the popularity of the destination, more and more residents are expressing the situation that increasingly causes frustration and dissatisfaction. The hoteliers and restaurateurs react to this resentment, but so far effective solutions seem to be missing.

In the middle of this unrest, employees in the hotel and restaurant industry announce protests to draw attention to the causes of their concern. According to derwesten.de , the protests are primarily due to the outstanding negotiations on the collective agreement. The chairman of the UGT union has stated that protests are necessary in the current situation. June 6th for a meeting in front of the headquarters of the Mallorcan hotel association and at the end of June for demonstrations at Playa de Palma and Palmanova Magaluf were set as concrete protest dates.

mass tourism and housing shortage

However, the problems are not new, as a demonstration on May 26, 2024 in Palma shows, in which at least 10,000 people took part. This rally, organized by "Banc de Tems de Sencelles", was under the motto "We say Basta!" And "Mallorca is not for sale!". The demonstrators protested against mass tourism and the associated housing shortage in Mallorca. The increasing number of visitors and holiday apartments contributes to the increase in housing shortage, which many residents perceive as the "destruction" of their homeland.

The participants were a colorful mix of families with children, students, students and pensioners who, among other things, destroyed it with slogans such as "Whoever loves Mallorca", and posters like "If they refuse a roof, they want to point out the future". They were supported by unions, environmental protection groups and citizens' initiatives. Many residents believe that numerous buildings in Playa de Palma are not suitable for mass tourism and require a limitation of the number of visitors because tourism is 45% of Mallorca's economic output.

effects of the protests

The UGT union is already planning further measures if the protests do not lead to an agreement. In July, possible jobs and strikes could follow, which could bring restrictions on vacationers. These developments throw a shadow on the upcoming summer months and the associated tourism activities on the island. The residents and employees hope for a quick solution to their concerns in order to maintain both the quality of life in Mallorca and to promote sustainable tourism.

The current situation requires a rethink and a dialogue between everyone involved in order to find the balance between economic growth and the quality of life of the residents. The frustration of the population is growing, and the upcoming protests could draw attention to the urgent problems that are plagued by Mallorca.

For more information and details on the protests, you can also read the report by Tagesschau.de .