Canary Islands Protest: Over-tourism Sparks Island-Wide Demonstrations

Canary Islands Protest: Over-tourism Sparks Island-Wide Demonstrations Large-scale protests erupted across the Canary Islands, fueled by rising living costs, housing shortages, and environmental concerns linked to overtourism. Tens of thousands of demonstrators marched through the streets of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and other islands, expressing their anger and frustration. Many tourists, witnessing the protests, chose to stay indoors for safety reasons. "We can't afford to live here anymore," said one protester, highlighting the escalating housing crisis. The influx of tourists has driven up property prices beyond the reach of many locals. Another participant added, "The environment is being destroyed. Our islands are losing their charm." The protests highlight the complex challenges faced by the Canary Islands, balancing economic benefits from tourism with the preservation of the local environment and the well-being of its residents. The scale of the demonstrations underscores the urgency of addressing these issues. The peaceful nature of the protests, despite their size, offers a glimmer of hope for a constructive dialogue to emerge between the government and the protestors.