Introduction
The Balearic Islands are known for their natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. However, these islands face significant challenges in relation to preserving their unique identity and protecting housing for local residents. This situation is particularly critical due to the “successful” tourism model of the Balearic Islands, which can endanger the stability of the real estate market. To address these issues, it is important to look to other regions that have implemented effective strategies to protect housing and preserve cultural identity.
The example of Åland
A prominent example is the Åland archipelago, located in the Baltic Sea and with a special self-governing status within Finland. In Åland, the concept of “Right of domicile” has been implemented to protect housing and preserve the cultural identity of the local community. This right, guaranteed by local legislation, gives Åland residents priority in acquiring and owning property on the island. This measure has helped to maintain an accessible housing market for local residents and preserved Åland’s rich culture and traditions in the face of external pressures.
Key points about the «Right of domicile» in the Åland Islands
Here are 3 key points about the Right of domicile in the Åland Islands:
Residency requirements
In order to obtain the “Right of domicile”, it is generally required that the person has resided in the Åland Islands for a specific period, around 5 years.
Link to the Åland Islands
This right is closely linked to the Åland Islands and their community. Whoever owns it is expected to have a significant commitment to life and society in the islands.
Benefits and privileges
Owning the “Right of domicile” can grant certain additional benefits and privileges, such as preferential access to social services, participation in community decisions and possible advantages in the labor and housing spheres, and also gives the right to passive suffrage.
Application to the Balearic Islands
Åland’s experience can offer valuable lessons for the Balearic Islands, which also face similar concerns in relation to tourism growth and gentrification. A possible solution would be to classify certain territories as “stressed”, which would make it possible to tighten the regulations related to housing and limit the purchase of properties by non-residents. This measure would help protect the social and cultural fabric of the Balearic Islands, ensuring that local residents have access to affordable housing and that the unique identity of the region is preserved for future generations.
In conclusion, the Balearic Islands have the opportunity to learn from Åland’s example and take proactive measures to safeguard its cultural heritage and ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for all its residents. It is important to approach these issues impartially and to seek solutions that benefit the local community and preserve the unique identity of the Balearic Islands.