Spain to Limit Tourist Numbers in Response to Overcrowding Concerns

Balearic Islands, Spain – June 21, 2024

Spain is contemplating new restrictions on tourist numbers due to persistent overcrowding in popular holiday destinations. Marga Prohens, President of the Balearic Islands government, announced the potential changes, stating the current rate of tourist influx was “unsustainable” and not beneficial for local citizens’ well-being.

Protests across Spain, including Majorca, have called for stricter control over tourist numbers. Demonstrators argue that excessive tourism has led to packed beaches, increased rent prices, temporary jobs, and environmental damage.

Prohens emphasized that the proposed measures are not anti-tourism but necessary to address the issue. Tourism contributes significantly to the Balearic Islands’ economy, making up 87% of GDP and 40% of employment.

Plans include launching a website, “The Islands You Want,” establishing 12 working groups, and a committee of experts to evaluate proposals. Spanish news outlet Majorca Today reported the initiative will be implemented in six phases, starting with a round table discussion and concluding with the adoption and application of measures.

Additionally, recent events highlighted the issue’s urgency. On Wednesday, a meteo-tsunami hit the port of Ciutadella in Menorca, causing flash flooding and evacuations as beachgoers fled. Weather experts attributed the meteo-tsunami to air pressure changes and the ongoing heatwave affecting Europe, causing contrasting weather patterns in the region.

The Spanish government continues to navigate the challenge of balancing tourism benefits with environmental and societal sustainability.