Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and the tourism industry accounts for a significant proportion of the economy. So it's no wonder that a new registration law for tourists, which is due to come into force on December 2, 2024, is causing quite a stir. However, following a meeting with industry representatives and the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, the all-clear has been given, at least in part: hoteliers and travel providers will not have to request more customer data than before, according to reports in the Spanish press.
Concern about a flood of data
There was a great deal of excitement when business associations feared that the new law would require a veritable flood of additional data. In particular, concerns about having to request telephone numbers, email addresses and even the family circumstances of travelers had the industry in an uproar. The prospect of becoming the "tourist police" did not sit well with many providers. But now one thing is certain: the guest's name, passport or ID number will continue to suffice in future - business as usual, you could say.
What is behind it?
The controversial "Marlaska Decree" - named after Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska - actually has one goal: to improve public safety. And yes, that sounds sensible at first. However, it is the networking of tourist data with police databases that is causing unease. Especially in the context of preventing terrorism and organized crime. In a country that relies so heavily on tourism as Spain - in Mallorca and the Balearic Islands, for example, this sector makes up 35 percent of economic output such a project naturally makes waves.
A boom in visitors
It is obvious that tourism in Spain is a sensitive topic. Visitor numbers are skyrocketing. In the first eight months of this year alone 64.3 million guests to the country. Mallorca and the Balearic Islands are among the most popular destinations - and the trend continues to grow. The question of how safety requirements can be reconciled with the needs of the tourist industry remains an exciting one.
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