Mallorca protests: Thousands demonstrate against overtourism, clashes with police injure eight

Mallorca is experiencing a surge in tourism, with Spain expecting a record year and 100 million visitors. However, many residents are protesting against the influx, citing housing shortages and environmental damage. On Sunday, an estimated 25,000 to 70,000 people demonstrated in Palma de Mallorca, organized by groups like "Menys Turisme, Més Vida" (Less Tourism, More Life).

Activists have published a "manual against touristification," detailing tactics such as targeting rental agencies and blocking key boxes used for Airbnb check-ins. While organizers claim these actions are non-violent, clashes with police occurred after the demonstration, resulting in eight injuries. Videos show police using batons as they prevented protesters from accessing a square for a planned manifesto reading.

The protests aim to signal that tourists are unwelcome, a message that has been amplified in recent years through actions like using water pistols on visitors. Despite these efforts, the deterrent effect appears minimal. Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu announced record numbers, expecting 43 million visitors during the summer months alone, a 6% increase from the previous year, and projecting 64 billion euros in revenue.

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Less Tourism, More Life