As summer tourism approaches, the Spanish government is clamping down on Airbnb, demanding the removal of nearly 66,000 unlawful rental properties, amid rising protests against over-tourism across the nation.
Spain Enforces Strict Airbnb Regulations Amid Rising Tourism Protests
Spain Enforces Strict Airbnb Regulations Amid Rising Tourism Protests
Spain intensifies action against Airbnb rentals in response to growing citizen unrest over tourism impacts.
Thousands of demonstrators have flooded the streets of the Canary Islands, voicing their concerns about over-tourism as the Spanish government initiates a crackdown on Airbnb. Following a court ruling in Madrid, the Ministry for Social Rights announced the removal of nearly 66,000 listings, citing breaches in regulations governing tourist accommodations. Minister Pablo Bustinduy stated that many of these properties failed to comply with registration requirements, emphasizing a commitment to balancing economic interests with the right to housing.
The growing unrest is a reaction to increasing rental prices that have doubled over the past decade, disproportionately impacting local residents in major cities. Spain's tourism minister has echoed the sentiment around the need to protect local housing conditions while acknowledging the country’s position as the second most visited tourism destination globally.
Local initiatives have evolved, with some city governments actively countering the rapid expansion of short-term rentals. For instance, Barcelona has committed to phasing out its 10,000 tourist apartments by the end of 2028. Simultaneously, Airbnb maintains its resolve against the court's decisions, arguing that the responsibility for listing transparency lies with property hosts rather than the platform itself.
Airbnb also pointed to a broader housing supply issue as the primary cause of the affordability crisis while locals intensify their demands for sustainable solutions amid spiraling costs. This summer, protests are likely to escalate as thousands continue to advocate for a balance between tourism and community needs, with events already planned under slogans like “Canaries have a limit.”
In Majorca, the movement organizes for future protests, highlighting a growing tension as foreign tourist numbers approach record highs, prompting concerns about the sustainability of Spain's tourism-based economy.
