Critical Perspectives of Barcelona Residents on Tourism Governance

Abstract

The article analyses the tensions between governance and social movements in Barcelona, a global tourist destination facing criticism for the impact of overtourism on sustainability and local quality of life. In response to the protests, the Consell de Turisme i Ciutat was created, whose limited impact evidenced a disconnect between governance and citizen demands. The study aims to examine how the dynamics between the neoliberal model of tourism growth and the demands for sustainability, equity and democratic participation affect the interaction between governance and social movements. Using
a qualitative methodology based on interviews with social movement representatives and experts, key strategies and perceptions are explored. The results show that, despite institutional attempts, social movements continued to use media strategies to make their demands visible, revealing a persistent conflict between neoliberal economic interests and social justice. The article concludes by highlighting
the need for inclusive and locally adapted tourism governance that promotes sustainability and equity, challenging centralized and vertical models, putting local communities at the center of decisions.

Keywords:

gobernanza, sobreturismo, neoliberalismo, movimientos sociales, turismofobia, Barcelona.

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