Lifeguards on Mallorca announce indefinite strike over pay and contracts

From September 28, lifeguards in Palma and Calvià will walk off the job, citing low pay, fixed-term contracts, and alleged disregard of safety standards.

Lifeguards start indefinite strike – what tourists and locals need to know

On September 28, the lifeguards in two municipalities on Mallorca intend to walk off the job. Affected are mainly beaches in Palma and Calvià. The lifeguards' union announced this – for good reason, say those affected: low pay, fixed-term contracts, and working conditions that make living here increasingly difficult.

Why now?

The season is still noticeable, beach bars are being cleared away slowly, yet the demands are loud: fair compensation, permanent contracts, and compliance with legally required minimum services. Many lifeguards report that wages have been eaten away by inflation and are hardly enough for rent and living on the island. By the way: I spoke yesterday morning at Playa de Palma with a shift handover – at 9:30 a.m., still cool, coffee in the thermos. The mood was serious, but determined.

Who is affected?

Officially, the organizers name Palma and Calvià. Similar protests have been announced on neighbouring islands. If the demands are not met, the walkout is to last indefinitely – a clear statement. That means: at some beaches there will be no usual lifeguard service, at least not in the previous form.

Conflict with politics

The union accuses the regional government of setting priorities incorrectly. Hospitality and large operators would receive support first, while lifeguard services and other public services would be underfunded. The accusations are particularly sharp against the agency responsible for emergencies: municipalities and companies may sometimes operate under the prescribed standards – for example through staffing with people who lack sufficient qualifications.

Danger to safety?

Lifeguards see their job as part of public health care. Less staff or less qualified staff increases the risk on the beaches. The union compares savings in beach services to closing a small clinic – drastic, but understandable, say many colleagues.

What happens next?

The employees demand concrete commitments: better contracts, wage adjustments to the cost of living, and strict compliance with legal requirements. The strike will continue until there are real solutions, they say. For tourists: check ahead before heading to the beach, follow signs, and heed local notices. And yes, it is frustrating – but safety must not become a target for cost-cutting.

I will stay on it and talk to people on the ground as soon as something changes. If you live or work by the coast: take care of each other.