Fact Check: Protesters Used Water Pistols Against Tourists in Barcelona and Mallorca on June 15, 2025
What We Know
On June 15, 2025, protests occurred in Barcelona and Mallorca, Spain, where demonstrators used water pistols against tourists. This event was part of a larger movement aimed at raising awareness about the negative impacts of mass tourism on local communities, particularly concerning the housing crisis. Protesters in Barcelona marched down the city's Golden Mile, carrying signs that read “Tourists go home” and “Tourism is stealing from us” while spraying water at tourists outside luxury stores like Louis Vuitton (New York Times, Washington Post).
In Mallorca, approximately 5,000 people participated in the protests, with some also using water guns and chanting slogans against the overwhelming presence of tourists (Washington Post, Global News). The protests were organized by various activist groups concerned about the effects of overtourism, which they argue exacerbate housing shortages and alter the character of their cities (New York Times, The Hill).
Analysis
The claim that protesters used water pistols against tourists in Barcelona and Mallorca on June 15, 2025, is supported by multiple reliable news sources. The New York Times and Washington Post both reported on the protests, detailing the use of squirt guns as a symbolic act to express frustration with the tourism model that locals believe is detrimental to their quality of life. The protests were described as a coordinated effort across several cities in southern Europe, highlighting a growing discontent with the economic model driven by tourism.
The sources used are credible and well-established news organizations that provide thorough coverage of current events. They report not only the actions taken by the protesters but also the motivations behind these actions, such as rising housing costs and the transformation of local businesses to cater primarily to tourists (Global News, The Hill).
While some tourists expressed confusion or annoyance at the protests, others appeared to understand the underlying issues, indicating a complex interaction between locals and visitors (Washington Post). This nuanced perspective is important in evaluating the overall impact of such protests on both communities and tourism.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that on June 15, 2025, protesters used water pistols against tourists in Barcelona and Mallorca to demand a rethink of the economic model causing a housing crisis is accurate. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that these protests were indeed held, and the use of water pistols was a symbolic gesture to highlight the frustrations of local residents regarding overtourism and its effects on their communities.
Sources
- Anti-Tourism Protests in Italy, Portugal and Spain Draw Attention to ...
- Spaniards turn water pistols on visitors in Barcelona and ...
- Spanish locals shoot water at visitors in protests against mass tourism
- Spaniards turn water pistols on visitors in Barcelona and ...
- Spaniards turn water pistols on visitors in Barcelona and Mallorca to ...
