The Canary Islands is on the brink of disruption today, with an estimated ‘100,000’ demonstrators poised to flood the streets in a stand against ‘mass tourism’. The latest protest spearheaded by irate locals highlights their outrage over the scarcity of affordable housing, job shortages and environmental harm.
Members of the “20-0” movement are planning to rally in popular tourist areas like Playa Las Americas, Corralejo, Puerto del Carmen and Maspalomas. With approximately 5.7 million British holidaymakers descending on the island cluster last year, they represent the most significant contingent of visitors soaking up the Canaries’ sunshine.
But as native islanders voice their concerns over inflated property costs and the overwhelming demands on nature and infrastructure laid on by outsiders, tensions have escalated in select communities. Environmental campaigner Ivan Cerdena Molina, linked to the local group ATAN and vocal in past protests, anticipates this fresh event will seek direct dialogue with tourists.
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Speaking to Express.co.uk, he said: “We are going to take loudspeakers, we are going to stop in the bars, [hotel] terraces and tell the people what are our problems.”
He also intends to tell them “you are swimming in s***”, pointing out the pressure on housing prices and the unfavourable impact of the behind-the-scenes industry. Despite the heady emotions, Molina believes the underlying sentiment remains non-aggressive, affirming: “I think the atmosphere is peaceful [but] we are going there to demonstrate. We are full of arguments,” reports the Express.
Despite mounting protests, the Canary Islands government—helmed by Coalición Canaria and Partido Popular (PP)—is steadfast in its refusal to adopt measures like an eco-tax or cap tourist numbers in overrun spots, as reported by The Canarian Weekly. The publication notes protest organisers from both the 20A and 20-O demonstrations insist they are not ‘anti-tourists’, but instead want increased environmental protections and housing solutions for residents.
Brits planning a trip to the Canary Islands, along with Valencia, have been alerted by the UK Foreign Office, which has released a statement advising: “Political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence.”
The advisory goes on to counsel: “If you’re near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.”
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