Protests in the Canary Islands have erupted with tens of thousands taking to the streets to call for government intervention to limit tourist arrivals. The protests are fueled by concerns about the impact of tourism on the environment, infrastructure, and housing supply. Activists argue that tourism is leading to unsafe working conditions and pricing locals out of their homes. The protests have escalated in severity, with some individuals going on hunger strikes to make their voices heard.
TUI CEO Sebastian Ebel has weighed in on the protests, stating that the primary issue is a shortage of housing and the lack of regulation of online platforms like Airbnb, rather than a direct attack on tourism. Ebel emphasizes the importance of socially responsible tourism that benefits local people economically. However, he acknowledges the concerns raised by protestors about the negative impacts of unregulated online booking platforms and their role in driving up housing prices.
The protests in the Canary Islands are not solely focused on housing issues, but also encompass broader concerns about the impact of tourism on the local population. Activists are calling for measures such as an eco-tax, a pause on tourism, and restrictions on the sale of properties to foreigners. They argue that while tourism is vital for the economy, there must be safeguards in place to protect the environment and local communities. Environmental groups have played a significant role in organizing the protests and advocating for sustainable tourism policies.
The Islands’ tourism model has remained largely unchanged since the 1980s, with a focus on attracting as many tourists as possible. This has led to discontent among locals, with a significant percentage of the population at risk of poverty. The influx of international tourists has put pressure on housing prices and infrastructure, leading to calls for stricter regulations on short-term rentals and hotel construction. The government has responded to the protests by announcing a tourist tax and drafting laws to address these concerns.
TUI, a major travel company with numerous offerings in the Canary Islands, is engaged in discussions with the regional government to address housing issues for those working in the tourism industry. Ebel expresses concern about the potential impact of increased regulations on TUI’s services but acknowledges the need for responsible and sustainable tourism practices. The company is exploring ways to provide more housing in destinations such as the Canary Islands and Greece, where overtourism is also a concern.
Overall, the protests in the Canary Islands highlight the complex issues surrounding tourism and its impact on local communities. While tourism is crucial for the economy, there must be a balance that protects the environment, supports local residents, and ensures the long-term sustainability of the industry. The government and industry stakeholders must work together to address these concerns and create a tourism model that benefits everyone involved.
