The number of migrants reaching the Canary Islands from the coast of West Africa has continued to rise, with thousands arriving on the tiny island of El Hierro in recent days. This influx of migrants, including children and babies, has overwhelmed the reception capacity of the island. Fernando Clavijo, the head of the Canary Islands' regional government, has expressed his concern, stating that 'El Hierro is becoming Lampedusa,' referring to the Italian island known for its reception of migrants. Clavijo has called on the Madrid government to provide more financial aid to improve the island's reception capacity and expedite the transfer of migrants to facilities on the Spanish mainland.
The situation in the Canary Islands highlights the ongoing migrant crisis in the region. The Canary Islands, located off the coast of West Africa, have become a popular destination for migrants attempting to reach Europe. The perilous journey across the Atlantic Ocean poses significant risks, and the increasing number of arrivals has put a strain on the resources and infrastructure of the islands. The Spanish government has been working to address the situation by increasing surveillance and rescue operations in the area, as well as improving reception facilities and speeding up the transfer of migrants to the mainland.
The migrant crisis in the Canary Islands is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response from both regional and national authorities. It is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the migrants, especially vulnerable groups such as children and babies. Additionally, efforts should be made to address the root causes of migration, including economic disparities, political instability, and lack of opportunities in the migrants' countries of origin. By addressing these underlying issues and working towards a more sustainable and equitable solution, the Canary Islands and Spain can better manage the migrant crisis and provide support to those in need.
Tens of thousands of demonstrators hit the streets across Spain's Canary Islands on Saturday to demand changes to the model of mass tourism they say is overwhelming the Atlantic archipelago. Organizers say mass tourism perpetuates an economic model that harms local residents and are demanding the authorities limit the numbers. Police said 20,000 demonstrators had turned out for the demonstrations, but organizers put the figure closer to 50,000. Some four out of 10 residents work in tourism, which accounts for 36 percent of the islands' GDP. Last year, some 16 million visited the Canary Islands, more than seven times its population of some 2.2 million, which the collective says is unsustainable for the archipelago's limited resources [6a6e10b3].
An expat living in Spain warns about the issue of over-tourism during the summer months, which can make life difficult for locals. The expat mentions that the island of Mallorca becomes crowded, making it hard to find tables in restaurants and enjoy the beaches. To avoid these frustrations, the expat recommends leaving the island during peak months. Over-tourism is a concern in Spain's coastal regions, and there are calls for a tourist tax to be implemented to help manage the influx of tourists. Other expats have also expressed frustration with the erosion of local culture and the influx of chain stores and franchises in cities like Madrid. Scorching temperatures in the Andalucian region of Spain are cited as a potential deterrent for retirees.
Ibiza locals are planning huge protests against mass tourism on the island. The protests are in response to the influx of tourists, with Ibiza attracting 3 million tourists a year, including 800,000 Brits. The residents argue that the island, with a population of 160,000, 'can't take any more'. The protests are organized by a group called Prou Eivissa and are scheduled for May 24. Activists are calling for a limit on incoming vehicles, incentives for hoteliers to cut capacity, and curbs on illegal renting. Environmental groups, including the WWF and Friends of the Earth, have backed the protests. Similar demonstrations have been held in other Canary Islands, including Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote. [608035cc]
Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Mallorca and Menorca in Spain's Balearic Islands to demonstrate against mass tourism and overcrowding. The protests were organized by various collectives and groups, who called for more controls on holiday accommodation and restrictions on property purchases by non-residents. The Balearic Islands heavily rely on tourism, which accounts for around 45% of the region's GDP. The protests come as part of a larger movement against mass tourism in Spain, with previous demonstrations taking place in Ibiza and the Canary Islands. The protesters are concerned about the impact of tourism on housing availability, water management, and the economic diversification of the islands. [f80adb0e]
Around 300 Majorca locals occupied Calo des Moro beach in Santanyi on June 16 to protest overcrowding on the island's beaches caused by UK tourists. The protest was organized by the Mallorca Platja Tour social media group and began with 20 people at 8am, but more locals joined in. The protesters aimed to spend a day at the beach with people from the area and highlight the issue of overcrowding. In response to the beach occupation, some British tourists questioned why people would want to go to places where they are not wanted, while others suggested reducing the number of hotels or addressing the issue of too many people on the island. Some defended their upcoming trips, stating that they have no control over wages, housing, or the building of hotels and accommodation. The protest ended at 1pm. [e8c10e0a]
Experts have warned of a huge increase in cockroaches in Spain due to genetic mutations and climate change. The National Association of Environmental Companies (ANECPLA) has stated that cockroaches are multiplying at an accelerated rate due to the prolonged heat from spring to autumn, with temperatures above 28°C being particularly conducive to their reproduction. The cockroaches have also developed resistance to insecticides. The spread of harmful bacteria and viruses carried by cockroaches poses a health risk, especially in the food industry. ANECPLA recommends maintaining cleanliness, sealing cracks and holes, and using rubbish containers with tight lids to prevent infestations. [adec59ca]