Anti-tourism protesters in Majorca have launched a "sabotage manual" targeting the Spanish island's tourism industry.
The move by the groups Arran Mallorca and Menys Turisme, Més Vida, whose name translates to "Less Tourism, More Life," has now sparked a legal pursuit.
The international law firm MD Law Group launched criminal proceedings against two anti-tourism activist groups.
They argue that the case introduces the legal concept of reputational damage.
The firm argues that anti-tourism graffiti and vandalism should be treated as aggravated criminal damage rather than minor offences.
Currently, these offences carry more minor punishments, with the maximum prison sentence limited to three years.
The case also accuses the groups of incitement to criminal damage, coercion, public disorder and participation in a criminal organisation.
Neither organisation has been charged.
Anti-tourism activists in Majorca have launched a 'sabotage manual' targeting the Spanish island's tourism industry
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MD Law Group claims the anti-tourism activists aim to damage Majorca's international reputation as a safe holiday hotspot.
The Balearic island's economy is heavily dependent on tourism.
It accounts for roughly 75 to 80 per cent of the island’s gross domestic product and supports over half of its total employment.
Anti-tourism groups argue that housing, fuel, and grocery costs have soared due to an increased demand from visitors.
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Majorca’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism
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The islanders' personal cost now ranks among the highest in the country, yet the average local salary ranks among the lowest in Spain.
MD Law Group says it will now send the case file to the island's leading business associations, encouraging them to join the legal action and seek compensation for financial losses linked to cancellations and reputational damage.
This month, thousands of local residents and activists formed a three-kilometre-long human chain along the waters of Majorca's iconic, unspoiled Playa Es Trenc.
Protesters waded into the sea and linked hands across the entire stretch of the beach right in front of stunned sunbathers.
Anti-tourism activists have long been protesting on the Spanish island
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Later this month, further protests are planned, with more than 50 organisations united behind a major demonstration on July 26.
Activists declaring their intention to "collapse" the capital of Majorca, Palma.
The coalition is being led by Menys Turisme Mes Vida.
Organisers staged a smaller gathering outside Palma Cathedral to announce their intentions, a "historic turnout" for the main event, according to the organisers.