Protests erupt across Europe as residents push back against overtourism

A significant wave of protests has emerged across several popular European holiday destinations, with local residents voicing their concerns over the impact of overtourism on their communities. British tourists visiting cities in Spain, Italy, France, and Portugal may encounter demonstrations as protestors seek to create a sense of caution among visitors.

The unrest is largely motivated by the belief that overtourism has contributed to a rise in rent prices and a shortage of affordable housing in these regions, alongside environmental degradation. The groups behind the demonstrations have not ruled out the possibility of targeting airport infrastructure as a means of deterring holidaymakers.

One of the key organisers is the SET European Network Against Touristification, an alliance representing protest groups from 17 cities, islands, and communities across southern Europe. The network recently held a three-day summit in Barcelona to discuss ongoing challenges linked to what they describe as "predatory tourism." They highlighted issues such as escalating rents, obstacles to homeownership for locals, and damage to beaches and natural sites.

At the summit, protestor Elena Boschi told The Mirror, “We want tourists to have some level of fear about the situation – without fear, there is no change.” This statement reflects the organisers’ desire to raise awareness and influence visitor behaviour regarding the pressures tourism places on these destinations.

The protests follow a series of large-scale demonstrations last summer, during which hundreds of thousands of Spaniards rallied in over 40 cities nationwide to express their frustrations. In Palma, the capital of Majorca, more than 50,000 people participated in marches between May and July, underscoring the widespread nature of discontent related to tourism.

Spain, in particular, continues to attract vast numbers of tourists each summer, which intensifies the concerns of residents in affected areas. The SET network and affiliated groups are now seeking to expand their campaign to address these issues across southern Europe, emphasising the need for sustainable approaches to tourism that balance economic benefits with the well-being of local populations and environments.

Source: Noah Wire Services