World Tourism Day is September 27. To mark this UN-designated day, the Balearic Government holds a 'Night of Tourism'. This year's was the ninth edition, and it was held in Formentera for the first time.
President Marga Prohens made the closing speech at Wednesday's event. Emphasising that "now is the time to focus on transformation," she highlighted the contribution of the tourism industry to the Balearic Islands in terms of "wealth, opportunities, social progress, innovation, sustainability, and citizen well-being".
However, she added that the government is aware of negative issues related to tourism, such as overcrowding and rising housing prices, and of public discontent, as reflected in the survey recently published by the AETIB tourism strategy agency.
"We are aware that tourism is sometimes viewed with mistrust by some citizens. That is precisely why we need to listen to their voices, involve them, and ensure that tourism is an opportunity for everyone. Tourism is our main economic force, but it is also the showcase of who we are as a people, and its management must reflect a firm commitment to quality, workers' rights, and respect for future generations."
The president went on to express her confidence that the tourism sector will continue to advance "in transforming our model towards sustainability and the well-being of local people" and praised achievements such as the extension of the season and the improvement of working conditions with the hospitality industry collective bargaining agreement.
Among awards given, the founder of Meliá Hotels International, Gabriel Escarrer Julià, received posthumous recognition of a legacy that "combines financial results with a profound human commitment and inspires generations of tourism professionals". The government recognised an "exemplary career" that "has profoundly influenced the development of tourism on the islands".