Last weekend, Barcelona witnessed anti-tourism protests that provoked a strong response from the Spanish government and industry representatives. On Saturday, hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets to highlight the impact of tourism on the city. Protesters targeted tourists dining at restaurants with water pistols, shouting “Go home!” These events have drawn significant attention as part of the growing anti-tourism sentiment in the city.
Barcelona, one of the world’s most visited cities, has seen an increase in such protests, with locals expressing frustration over rising prices driven by the tourism industry. The demonstrations, which saw tourists being attacked with water pistols, have raised concerns about the potential impact on the city’s reputation and its crucial tourism sector.
Spanish Prime Minister Jordi Hereu delivered a stern response, condemning the protests as “highly inappropriate.” He stressed that these actions severely damage the country’s reputation in the tourism sector, which is a vital component of the economy. Hereu, who previously served as the Mayor of Barcelona, also remarked that the media had exaggerated the scale of the protests.
Jorge Marichal, President of the Spanish Confederation of Hotels and Tourist Accommodation, also criticised the protests, labelling them as “lacking in intelligence.” He highlighted the significant role tourism plays in Spain’s economy and the potential harm such actions could cause.
Tourism accounted for approximately 13% of Spain’s gross domestic product in 2023. Last year, Spain welcomed 85 million visitors, making it the world’s second most visited country after France. This statistic underscores the importance of the tourism industry to the nation’s economy.
Other popular tourist destinations in Spain, such as Mallorca, Malaga, and the Canary Islands, have also experienced similar anti-tourism protests recently. Local residents in these areas have voiced their concerns about the rising cost of living attributed to the influx of tourists, which they argue is driving local populations towards poverty.
In conclusion, the recent events in Barcelona have highlighted the tensions between local populations and the tourism industry. While the economic benefits of tourism are undeniable, the challenge lies in balancing these benefits with the needs and well-being of local communities. The Spanish government’s strong stance against these protests underscores their commitment to protecting the tourism sector while seeking solutions to address the concerns of local residents.
