Protesters in Barcelona recently marched through the city center, imploring tourists to "Go Home!" as they grapple with a surge in visitors that many locals say is pushing them out of their own neighborhoods. Spain heavily relies on tourism, especially in Barcelona, a city that attracted over 15 million tourists last year, a staggering figure compared to the city's local population. Many demonstrators are demanding more sustainable tourism practices that do not compromise their housing and living conditions.
Marina, one of the protesters, articulated the collective sentiment, holding a sign that read, "Your AirBnB used to be my home." High rents caused by short-term rentals and expats relocating for favorable weather have driven many natives out of the city. "Our goal is not to stop tourism," she stated. "It's about managing it to a normal rate."
The protests included calls to ban massive cruise ships and targeted a popular tourist destination: the Sagrada Familia church. Young marine biologist Elena noted the financial strain on the younger population, making even daily expenses like coffee unaffordable. Meanwhile, 80-year-old Pepi Viu shared a personal tale of eviction and feelings of abandonment, having just been forced from her home of nearly a decade due to rising rents—a grim reality echoed by many in the city.
Amidst these challenges, some residents, like Joan Alvarez, are standing their ground against rising rents and the loss of community. He argues that this isn't merely an economic issue but a fight for the cultural significance of living in central Barcelona. "Housing shouldn't be big business," he asserted, emphasizing his rights as a long-term resident juxtaposed with property owners seeking profits.
Facing mounting pressure, the city has announced a ban on short-term tourist rentals starting in 2028, which will revoke licenses for 10,000 landlords. However, some landlords, like Jesus Pereda, believe they are being unfairly blamed for the housing crisis. He contends that the influx of 'nomad' workers, rather than tourists, is driving up rental prices.
The protests culminated in fiery chants and a flare that disrupted tourists in hotels. Activists are demanding solutions to the issue of over-tourism, which has spurred similar protests in other parts of Spain, Portugal, and Italy. As the summer tourism season approaches, the city anticipates an even larger influx of visitors, amplifying the urgency for sustainable solutions to this complex issue.
