Barcelona protests against overtourism escalated over the weekend, with thousands hitting the streets armed with water pistols to drive away visitors. The protesters argue that tourism has driven up living costs for locals without adequately benefitting the community. This backlash echoes a global trend as travel resumes post-pandemic.
- The Assemblea de Barris pel Decreixement Turístic led the protests, outlining 13 demands for changes in tourism policies in Barcelona. Local authorities estimated around 2,800 participants, though organizers claimed up to 20,000 people joined.
- Protesters defended the use of water guns as a non-violent form of protest. Barcelona’s Mayor promised to address some concerns, including reserving more residential units for locals.
The discontent in Barcelona reflects a larger issue of overtourism faced by other popular destinations worldwide, with countries like Japan, Greece, and Italy implementing measures to control tourist influxes.
Experts emphasize the need for sustainable tourism management to address these challenges. Solutions could involve monitoring visitor capacities and using technology to regulate tourism flows in real-time.
