Introduction
Mass tourism’s negative impact on local residents’ lives will lead to more widespread protests if European officials do not take action, according to UNESCO’s Peter Debrine. Speaking on “Squawk Box Asia,” Debrine emphasized the importance of elected officials responding to the demands of their citizens.
The Situation in Venice
Debrine cited the 2021 ban on large cruise ships in Venice as a significant example of successful public pressure. While the ships now dock further away, thousands of passengers still congest the city’s narrow streets. Venice is expected to see a 9% increase in cruise passengers this year, reaching 540,000, according to the North Adriatic Sea Port Authority. Efforts to manage crowds, such as the 5-euro tourism tax, have yet to show effectiveness.
The Case of Barcelona
Similar to Venice, Barcelona’s residents are increasingly dissatisfied with the impact of tourism. A 2023 survey by the City Council revealed a growing belief that tourism is detrimental to the city. Debrine noted that Barcelona has reached a critical point but emphasized that solutions exist.
Quality Over Quantity
Debrine advocates for a shift towards “quality over quantity” tourism, prioritizing high-spending travelers over mass tourists. This strategy gained traction during the Covid-19 pandemic, with many destinations favoring luxury travelers. Higher-quality tourism also addresses issues of tourist behavior, such as excessive drinking and littering.
Amsterdam’s Approach
Amsterdam is tackling these problems by implementing policies against coach buses, tourist shops, new hotels, and short-term rentals. A 2023 campaign specifically targeted young, male British tourists, advising them to avoid the city if seeking drugs or parties.
Calls for Tourism Degrowth
Civil groups in Barcelona are calling for policies to reduce tourism, including higher taxes, cruise ship limits, and restrictions on short-term rentals. Debrine also emphasized the role of travelers in making conscious travel decisions. He suggested “mirror cities” as alternatives, such as Tarragona, which offers similar attractions to Barcelona and could benefit from increased tourism.
Conclusion
Addressing overtourism requires a balance between the interests of locals and travelers. By implementing strategic policies and encouraging responsible travel, European cities can mitigate the negative effects of mass tourism and prevent further unrest.