Spain Orders Airbnb to Remove 65,000 Listings Amid Housing Crisis

Spain Cracks Down on Airbnb: Over 65,000 Listings Removed Amid Housing Crisis Spain's government has launched a significant crackdown on short-term rentals, ordering Airbnb to remove more than 65,000 property listings from its platform. The move follows months of anti-tourism protests across the country, fueled by rising rents and a shortage of affordable housing. Many locals feel the influx of tourists, facilitated by platforms like Airbnb, is exacerbating these problems. "There's been massive anti-tourism protests in the country over rising rents and a lack of affordable housing," reports ITV News. The government argues that many Airbnb listings lack the necessary permits and accurate information, violating regulations designed to protect local residents. Airbnb, however, plans to appeal the decision, stating that they believe the authorities lack the power to make rulings on short-term rentals. This isn't just a Spanish issue; similar restrictions on short-term rentals have been implemented in cities like New York, Berlin, Amsterdam, and even London, highlighting a growing global concern about the impact of tourism on local housing markets. Barcelona, for example, is planning a total ban on short-term rentals by 2028. The situation presents a complex challenge, balancing the needs of tourists with the concerns of local communities struggling with housing affordability. The outcome of Airbnb's appeal will be closely watched, with potential implications for short-term rental regulations worldwide.