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Protests against mass tourism erupted across Spain and other European cities on Sunday, with demonstrators using water pistols on tourists in Barcelona and Mallorca. The coordinated action highlights growing concerns about overtourism's impact on housing affordability and local culture. Thousands rallied in Mallorca, while hundreds participated in other cities, including Venice and Lisbon. Protesters argue that mass tourism is driving up rents, displacing residents, and replacing local businesses with tourist-oriented ones. The Spanish government, while acknowledging the issue, is attempting to balance addressing public concerns with maintaining the tourism industry's significant contribution to the national economy. Recent crackdowns on illegal short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb indicate a move towards regulation.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.