The picturesque Canary Islands, long celebrated for their vibrant tourism industry, have been thrust onto the world stage, but not for the reasons local businesses would hope. Instead, they are under intense scrutiny due to rising anti-tourism protests. This growing discontent stems from various socio-economic grievances, pitting segments of the community against each other and raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of their biggest industry.
Recently, beachgoers found themselves unwitting participants as protestors, waving signs emblazoned with slogans like "This is our beach" and "Tourists go home", converged on popular spots including the lively Troya Beach. These protests are part of broader demonstrations seen throughout Europe, particularly with the Canary Islands, mainland Spain, and Greece facing the brunt of discontent.
Since April 2023, over 70 associations have joined forces, coordinating marches across the islands to voice their discontent with the surge of tourism. Protestors, demonstrating against rising housing costs and environmental degradation, have brought their grievances directly to tourists, showcasing the heightened tension arising from the obvious economic dependence on visitors.
Despite the protests, many tourists appeared unfazed, lounging under the sun, seemingly oblivious to the outcry surrounding them. One baffled holidaymaker described the experience as surreal, noting how “the beach looked normal, yet there were people shouting about wanting us to leave.” British holidaymakers on the islands have expressed feelings ranging from confusion to slight concern, but many remained determined to enjoy their holidays.
The crux of the protesters' argument hinges on the declaration from local residents: as tourist numbers increase, they often bring with them higher living costs and exacerbated issues such as housing shortages. Many protestors articulate their frustration on issues like overcrowding and the perceived exploitation of local resources, fueling the belief among activists like Sarah Lopez, who stated, "We need changes to the tourist model to prioritize local needs and preserve our culture."
Resistance has emerged from locals who recognize the significant role tourism plays within their communities. For example, business owners and hospitality workers, who depend on tourist revenue for their livelihoods, have engaged in their own counter-protests. Notable among them is Augusto Ferreira, who declared, "Lanzarote Loves Tourism” — aimed at highlighting how intertwined the local economy is with tourism activities. Ferreira asserted, “My family relies on tourism; it’s our bread and butter."
Political representatives are also weighing in. David Morales, head of tourism within the People’s Party, vehemently defended tourists' right to enjoy their vacations unencumbered by protests, asserting they should not face interruptions during their holiday experiences. His statements reflect broader political sentiments urging unity to protect tourism as a lifeline for many livelihoods.
Tenerife, for example, saw approximately 14.1 million international visitors within 2023 alone, marking noticeable growth from previous years. The economic impact has been staggering, with estimates indicating the tourism sector generated around 20 billion euros last year. This prosperity, unfortunately, brings along its share of troubles — advocates for anti-tourism protests claim the accompanying rise of property prices and environmental impacts must prompt serious discussions on how to manage tourism.
Interestingly, some local leaders are advocating for alternative tourism practices. Carlos Tarife, deputy mayor of Santa Cruz, noted earlier this year the island's desire to shift away from “all-inclusive” tourism, indicating preference for higher-quality accommodations and experiences rather than the rushed busloads typical of mass tourism.
The local protests represent only part of the broader anti-tourism sentiment brewing across Europe, impacting not just the Canary Islands but destinations like Greece and mainland Spain. Prominent demonstrations reflect glaring disparities between local communities' needs and the demands of the tourism industry, which continues to grow.
Yet, desire for change varies. Following the protests, Lanzarote residents also organized their rally to express solidarity for tourism, reinforcing the idea of division within the archipelago. Many residents understand the need for balance between welcoming tourists and maintaining their quality of life.
The challenges facing the Canary Islands encapsulate broader discussions concerning tourism’s role within economies reliant on it. Even as anti-tourism protests continue to erupt, the question remains: How can the Canary Islands sustain and improve tourism without sacrificing the needs of their communities? It will require careful navigation amid growing frustrations to shape the next chapter of this iconic destination.
