Southern European cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Athens are witnessing a surge in anti-tourism sentiment as residents protest against issues caused by over-tourism, including rising housing costs and water scarcity. Activism has emerged to advocate for change in tourism policies, reflecting the growing frustrations of locals amid a tourism revival post-Covid-19.
Southern Europe is experiencing growing dissatisfaction among locals regarding the influx of tourists in cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Athens. After a temporary lull during the Covid-19 pandemic, residents feel overwhelmed again, leading to protests and various forms of activism demanding change. Locals equipped with water guns and stickers are making their voices heard by urging visitors to go home, highlighting the detrimental impact of over-tourism.
Proponents of the protests point out that over-tourism contributes to skyrocketing housing prices, exacerbating gentrification, and worsening already critical water shortages. In drought-stricken areas like Barcelona, tourists are consuming water at much higher rates than residents. Some municipalities in Sicily have even begun refusing tourists due to severe water shortages, illustrating the dire situation.
Governments are hesitant to enact firm regulations since tourism significantly supports the economies of Southern European countries: Croatia relies on tourism for 11.3% of its economy, while Portugal, Greece, Spain, and Italy depend on it for 6 to 8%. Following two years of halted tourism, many eager travelers have returned, leading to a surge known as “revenge tourism.”
In 2023, countries like Spain and Portugal outperformed the broader EU economy largely due to tourism, with GDP growth rates surpassing 2%. Sandra Carvão from the United Nations’ tourism agency noted the resurgence of anti-tourism sentiments, which had started to emerge even before the pandemic.
In July, around 20,000 activists protested in Palma de Mallorca, reflecting rising frustration over tourism’s negative effects on the Balearic Islands. In Barcelona, smaller protests included activists soaking international visitors with water guns, prompting criticism from Spain’s tourism minister, who defended the nation’s hospitable culture. Similar demonstrations have emerged across Spain and other tourist-centric countries.
Cities attempt to curtail over-tourism with various penalties and bans, including limitations on activities like selfie-taking in Portofino, Italy, and access restrictions in Venice. Barcelona’s mayor has proposed ending short-term rentals by 2028 to address housing shortages. Successful tourism strategies involve balancing economic benefits with social and environmental considerations.
Carvão cited Amsterdam’s effective measures, which include banning disruptive behaviors in its famous red-light district and halting new hotel constructions. Conversely, cities like Copenhagen are incentivizing eco-friendly tourist actions by offering rewards for positive behaviors. Effective tourism management requires comprehensive strategies addressing data collection, local governance, and a blend of varied policies.
Southern Europe is grappling with the challenges associated with over-tourism, marked by protests from residents in cities heavily reliant on tourist economies. The strain on local resources such as housing and water is causing a backlash, prompting both grassroots activism and governmental responses. Finding a harmonious balance between tourism and local needs will be crucial for sustainable development in these regions.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
