Activists across Southern Europe are gearing up for a coordinated protest against overtourism this Sunday, with demonstrations planned in major cities including Barcelona, Lisbon, and Venice. The movement, under the banner Southern Europe against Overtourism (SET), aims to pressure authorities into addressing the negative impacts of excessive tourism on local communities.
The Core Issues
- Overcrowding and the strain on city infrastructures.
- Skyrocketing property costs pushing locals out of affordable housing.
- Low-quality jobs in the tourism sector with poor pay and conditions.
In Barcelona, protesters are encouraged to bring water pistols, echoing last year's controversial demonstrations. The city, which welcomed 26 million tourists in 2024, sees tourism as a double-edged sword—contributing 15% to its GDP while also driving up living costs and inequality.
Local Responses
- Barcelona's tourism agency has published an open letter welcoming tourists but acknowledges the challenges of mass tourism, highlighting measures like a ban on tourist apartments and a tourism tax.
- Venice plans a more subdued protest, with banners denouncing overtourism's impact.
Economic Context
International travel spending in Europe is expected to rise by 11% to $838 billion this year, with Spain and France leading in tourist numbers. However, the backlash reflects growing discontent among residents who feel marginalized by the tourism boom.
Graffiti with messages like "Tourists go home" has become common in Barcelona, symbolizing the tension between economic benefits and community well-being.
Comments
Join Our Community
Sign up to share your thoughts, engage with others, and become part of our growing community.
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts and start the conversation!