150,000 Canary Islanders Protest Against Mass Tourism, Demand Regulation and Economic Restructuring

On April 20, 2024, nearly 150,000 people in the Canary Islands took to the streets to demonstrate against mass tourism, calling on the government to implement measures to limit and regulate the industry, decrease tourism, and restructure the economy to prioritize social and environmental justice. The protesters, representing about two dozen social and environmental groups, gathered under the slogan 'The Canary Islands have a limit' and waved banners with slogans like 'The Canary Islands are not for sale!' and 'A moratorium on tourism.'

The protesters argued that the overcrowding of tourists perpetuates an economic model that harms local residents and the environment. They are demanding that authorities limit the number of visitors, introduce an eco-tax, and restrict the sale of properties to non-residents. The environmental group Ben Magec (Ecologists in Action) called the protests a 'resounding success' and said the people have spoken, calling for decisive action from authorities.

Residents voiced dissatisfaction with issues like poverty, low wages, soaring rent prices, and the overtourism that has overwhelmed local infrastructure and natural spaces. Key demands included a moratorium on new hotel and holiday flat developments, the introduction of an eco-tax, and stricter regulations on property purchases by foreigners.

The Canary Islands, known for their volcanic landscapes and year-round sunshine, attract millions of visitors every year, with four in ten residents working in the tourism sector, which accounts for 36% of the islands' GDP. In 2023, the Canary Islands saw a 13% increase in foreign tourist arrivals, reaching nearly 14 million, about six times more than the islands' population of 2.2 million.

Why this matters: The demonstrations in the Canary Islands highlight the growing tensions between mass tourism and the well-being of local communities and the environment. As popular tourist destinations grapple with the negative impacts of overtourism, the call for sustainable and equitable tourism models is gaining momentum worldwide.

The regional government acknowledged the need for more controls as the tourism sector continues to grow, and a draft law is expected to pass this year to toughen the rules on short-term holiday rentals. Canary Islands president Fernando Clavijo recognized the protesters' frustrations, particularly concerning housing, but warned that "people who come here to visit and spend their money must not be criticised or insulted." The protesters stress they are not against tourism but want a shift towards higher-quality visitors who engage with the local culture and environment.

Key Takeaways

• Canary Islands residents protest mass tourism, demand limits and eco-tax.
• Protesters cite issues like poverty, low wages, and overtourism's impact.
• Canary Islands saw 13% increase in foreign tourists in 2023, reaching 14M.
• Regional govt. acknowledges need for more controls as tourism sector grows.
• Protesters seek sustainable tourism that engages with local culture and environment.