Majorca is facing the prospect of significant disruption this July as anti-tourism protests threaten to bring parts of the Balearic island to a standstill. Campaigners are planning a fresh wave of demonstrations on July 26, with the aim of collapsing the capital, Palma. The protests are being organized by the group 'Menys turisme, mes vida' ('Less tourism, more life'), which led widespread demonstrations in 2024. The group warns that this year's rallies could be even larger as they call on local residents to show support.
Protests in Majorca and Menorca
In Majorca, the main protest is expected to take place at the foot of Palma's cathedral, a popular destination for cruise passengers. Meanwhile, in Menorca, marches are planned for June 13. More than 50 organizations have issued a rallying call, claiming they want to 'collapse' Palma. The protests are not just about the volume of tourists but also the direct impact on local living conditions.
David Comas, a spokesman for the group, warned that the Balearic Islands are heading towards a 'decisive' and extremely complex summer. He highlighted an extraordinary factor: the total solar eclipse on August 12, which has triggered a surge in visitor forecasts. 'We foresee that it will be a very difficult summer for Majorcans,' Comas said. 'By the day of the eclipse, hotel reservations are already completely full, which will completely collapse the island.'
Housing crisis and local impact
Comas stressed that the focus of the protest is not limited to tourist numbers but also the direct impact on the local population. 'Menys Turisme, mes vida' claims thousands of workers are in a situation of 'maximum vulnerability,' with housing issues being a key concern. The island, he said, 'has been transformed into a theme park where the right to be able to live is violated.'
The Balearic Islands are not alone in facing such unrest. In Lanzarote, there have been reports of Airbnb key boxes being glued shut and access to popular tourist spots being restricted. Videos on social media show demonstrators using glue on lock boxes and unofficial warning notices to deter tourists. Graffiti with slogans like 'Tourists go home' has also appeared.
In 2024, mass protests took place in the Canary Islands, including Tenerife. Protesters are not necessarily against tourists themselves but against the impacts of mass tourism on the islands, such as housing shortages and infrastructure strain. Calls have been made for authorities to introduce visitor caps or tourism taxes.
Locals have reported being pushed out of their homes by landlords converting properties into holiday rentals, while others cannot afford rising rents. They urge authorities to address housing issues and introduce stricter rules on holiday homes.
