Even though everyone knows that tourism is the driving force of the Balearic economy, the people here have simply been pushed too far by the relentless massification – especially since the pandemic. Overcrowded towns and villages, clogged roads and markets, a collapsing public transport system, water shortages, environmental damage, sky-high prices and rampant poverty in the low-wage sector: even the most devoted worshippers of tourism can no longer deny that Mallorca has reached its limits.
It is all the more understandable, then, that a majority of the population is calling for clear limits to be set on tourism. What is surprising, however, are the statements of the Balearic tourism minister, who declared that the conservative government’s policy is in line with the wishes of the people.
In reality, it is the Conservatives – in power for more than two years now – who have overturned the long-standing moratorium on tourist beds, allowed building on rural land, and failed to raise the visitor tax, the Ecotasa, despite expert recommendations. Instead of serious solutions, there is a round table from which most participants walked away in frustration, and a half-hearted restriction on the import of foreign cars and hire vehicles.
Even the cruise ship cap, in place for four years, is regularly flouted. And when even one of the most powerful hotel bosses in the world, Gabriel Escarrer of Meliá Hotels, publicly criticises the government – as he did in the spring – alarm bells ought to ring. He warns that without sustainable management, the islands will become overloaded and even more housing for locals will be lost. He also cautions that the Balearics risk turning into an overcrowded and unattractive destination.
There is no reason to doubt the good intentions of the government. Nevertheless, the impression remains: the genuine will for change is lacking – or foundering on the hard-right, quasi-coalition partner Vox. Yet Mallorca is in urgent need of a policy that safeguards the quality of life of its residents, instead of hiding behind empty declarations and half-measures. Otherwise, the island risks losing, once and for all, the balance between tourism and quality of life.