Mallorca Residents "Occupy" Beach in Protest Against Mass Tourism

Written by Camilla Jessen

Aug.12 - 2024 2:22 PM CET

World
Photo: The Telegraph on YouTube
Photo: The Telegraph on YouTube
Locals express growing frustration.

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Yesterday, around 100 local residents in Mallorca staged a protest on the beach of Playa de Palma to express their frustration with the impact of mass tourism.

One protester stated that the goal was "to remind people that the beach belongs to all the residents of Mallorca."

The protest was not directed at tourists themselves but at the way tourism is managed on the island.

According to the activist, many tourists understood the protest's message.

According to a report by European Truth, this demonstration is part of a broader trend across Mallorca and other popular tourist destinations in Spain, where locals have been increasingly vocal about the pressures of mass tourism.

In May and June, tens of thousands participated in rallies in Palma de Mallorca to voice their concerns.

While these protests have been largely peaceful, tensions have risen, as evidenced by recent graffiti in Mallorca bearing the slogan "Kill the tourist."

Despite the growing discontent, Spain continues to see a surge in visitors.

The number of foreign guests increased by 13% in the first half of 2024, setting the country on track for another record-breaking year.

In response to these concerns, the Spanish government recently introduced strict measures targeting short-term and seasonal housing rentals, a sector that has been a focal point of local dissatisfaction.