The protesters and residents pushing back on tourism in Barcelona

Original Article Published: June 16, 2025

The recent protests in Barcelona against over-tourism have brought attention to the challenges facing the city. The residents claim that the massive number of tourists is changing the city's culture and affecting their quality of life. Furthermore, the pressure on infrastructure, housing, and the labor market has made it difficult for locals to afford homes and find stable jobs. The conflict between tourists and residents has intensified, with accusations of misconduct and disorderly behavior toward tourists, and some calling for a tourism boycott. The tension continues to rise as the city's tourism board announces plans to increase promotion and accessibility to attract more visitors, despite the ongoing opposition.