Mallorca’s campaign “Less Tourism, More Life” aims to combat overtourism

Image generated with Ai

“Menys Turisme, Més Vida” (Less Tourism, More Life) has transitioned from a protest slogan against overtourism in Mallorca to the name of a new association. On Friday, this association held a significant meeting in Sineu, aimed at discussing strategies to mitigate overcrowding and planning protest actions.

Protests and Proposals

The sentiment at the assembly hall in Sineu’s secondary school was clear: “It’s going to be an intense summer.” The primary focus for protests is Palma Son Sant Joan Airport, with discussions about potentially bringing the airport to a standstill. Given the legal complications that such protests might entail, there was a suggestion to establish a resistance fund to cover any fines that might arise.

Calls for Collective Action

• Shared Social Response: Climate activist Pere Joan Femenia emphasized the need for a unified social response to overtourism, one that resonates with society at large.
• Collective Strength: Margalida Ramis, president of the environmental group GOB, highlighted the importance of collective strength in achieving immediate, medium-term, and long-term solutions.

Key Proposals:

• Limiting the number of hire cars.
• Uniting various unions to bolster the movement.

Political Context

Ramis pointed out the necessity of making changes during the current government period, expressing skepticism about relying on a potential future shift in political leadership. This criticism was directed at the left-wing coalition for its perceived inaction on the overcrowding issue.

Planned Demonstrations

• A “massive” demonstration is being planned, although a date has not yet been set.
• An upcoming protest in Palma is scheduled for Saturday, May 25, organized by the Sencelles Banc del Temps collective.

The association “Menys Turisme, Més Vida” is gearing up for a summer of intense activity aimed at addressing the challenges of overtourism in Mallorca. Through strategic protests, collective action, and targeted proposals, the group seeks to alleviate the pressures of overcrowding and promote a sustainable approach to tourism that balances the needs of both residents and visitors.