Ibiza, Spain, known globally for its vibrant nightlife, is facing a significant challenge as the local ambulance services struggle with an influx of emergency calls related to drug incidents at nightclubs. According to Pablo Roig, an ambulance technician, the situation has become critical, particularly during the summer months when the island experiences a booming tourist season. "Some days, we can barely eat or take a break due to the volume of calls," Roig reported.
The health technicians union revealed that over 25% of summer emergency calls involve clubgoers, many of whom are foreign visitors. This has placed immense pressure on the existing healthcare system, which caters to a permanent population of 160,000 but swells to millions during peak tourist periods. José Manuel Maroto from the union highlighted that certain nightclubs need emergency assistance multiple times in a single night due to intoxicated patrons.
This local health crisis is contributing to broader tensions across Europe regarding tourism. Cities in Spain, Portugal, and Italy have seen rising anti-tourism protests as residents express frustrations about how excessive visitor numbers strain public services and increase living costs. With over 3.3 million visitors last year, Ibiza exemplifies the challenge of balancing economic benefits from tourism against the health and welfare of local residents.
The health technicians union revealed that over 25% of summer emergency calls involve clubgoers, many of whom are foreign visitors. This has placed immense pressure on the existing healthcare system, which caters to a permanent population of 160,000 but swells to millions during peak tourist periods. José Manuel Maroto from the union highlighted that certain nightclubs need emergency assistance multiple times in a single night due to intoxicated patrons.
This local health crisis is contributing to broader tensions across Europe regarding tourism. Cities in Spain, Portugal, and Italy have seen rising anti-tourism protests as residents express frustrations about how excessive visitor numbers strain public services and increase living costs. With over 3.3 million visitors last year, Ibiza exemplifies the challenge of balancing economic benefits from tourism against the health and welfare of local residents.
