The Spanish government is intensifying action against Airbnb, targeting nearly 66,000 properties it claims are breaching tourism accommodation regulations. The enforcement follows widespread protests against over-tourism that have emerged just before the summer tourism season. Thousands of demonstrators rallied in the Canary Islands on Sunday, protesting the negative impacts of tourism on local housing.
Pablo Bustinduy, the Minister for Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and the 2030 Agenda, stated that these properties have "violated various norms" essential for housing designated for tourists. This clampdown is spurred by a Madrid court ruling that mandates Airbnb to withdraw almost 5,000 specific listings identified by the ministry. The affected properties span regions including Madrid, Catalonia, Andalusia, Valencia, the Basque Country, and the Balearic Islands. The ministry is now awaiting legal outcomes regarding the approximately 60,000 additional properties deemed unlawful.
Bustinduy hailed the court's decision as a victory for housing rights, asserting that economic interests should not overshadow the necessity for available housing. The ongoing housing crisis has become a primary concern in Spain, with soaring rental prices placing extreme pressure on residents in urban areas. Reports indicate that average rent costs have doubled over the last decade while wages remain stagnant, worsening the accommodation crisis exacerbated by tourist apartments.
Spain ranks second globally in tourist appeal, anticipating 94 million foreign visitors in 2024, reflecting a 13% increase from the previous year. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has echoed sentiments regarding the imbalance between Airbnb properties and available homes, promising measures to curb excessive tourism accommodations.
While some municipalities like Barcelona plan to eliminate 10,000 short-term rental apartments by 2028, Airbnb has pointed out its efforts to negotiate compliance agreements with local governments in regions such as the Canary Islands and Ibiza. Following the court's ruling, Airbnb announced its intention to appeal and contended that the accountability for information lies with the property hosts rather than the platform itself.
With protests across regions like the Canary Islands showcasing discontent with the tourism industry's impact on local communities, actions by groups like Menys Turisme, Més Vida in Majorca reflect a rising tide of public sentiment against unchecked tourism growth. As summer approaches, tensions surrounding tourism and housing availability in Spain are likely to escalate, potentially leading to further demonstrations as citizens demand change.
