Canary Islands Protesters Demand Sustainable Tourism

Recently, the Canary Islands have witnessed a surge in anti-tourism protests, with thousands of locals rallying against the impact of mass tourism on their communities. Demonstrators in key tourist areas like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote have voiced concerns over rising property prices and environmental degradation caused by the influx of visitors. The protests, often marked by chants such as 'this beach is ours' and 'more tourists, more misery', reflect growing discontent with policies that prioritize tourism over local needs. The slogan 'The Canary Islands have a limit' underscores demands for a revised tourism model that benefits residents more equitably. British tourists found themselves caught in these protests, with some being urged to 'go home'. Despite the tension, the protests have remained largely non-violent, though they highlight the urgent need for sustainable tourism practices in the region.