Canary Islands Protests: A Unified Call for Economic, Social and Environmental Transformation

Demonstrations calling for change in the mass tourism model took place on Saturday across eight of the Canary Islands, with thousands of people taking to the streets under the slogan “The Canary Islands have a limit”. The protests were held in various cities across Spain and Europe, including Puerta del Sol in Madrid where Canarians gathered to criticize the economic model they feel is pushing them out of their land.

In Santa Cruz of Tenerife, a significant crowd gathered in Weyler square, while in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, thousands marched along the Las Canteras promenade. In other islands, similar demonstrations took place. The origins of these marches stem from concerns about the exhaustion of the archipelago’s economic engine, which contributes 35% to GDP and nearly 40% of employment.

The protesters made demands for a moratorium on construction projects that are damaging natural spaces and road infrastructure. They also called for an ecotax on foreigners who purchase housing and regulation of such purchases to prevent further damage to local communities. Other issues raised included poverty, low wages, and rising rental prices.

The discourse surrounding these protests has expanded beyond just economic concerns to include issues related to social justice and environmental sustainability. As such, it represents a unified call for transformation reminiscent of historical mobilizations in the community.