The impact of the war in Iran on the Balearic Islands is already being felt by 93% of residents in their household finances. This is reflected in the first survey carried out by Estudis d’Opinió de les Illes Balears (EOIB), promoted by the Govern and funded through the sustainable tourism tax, to analyse how the international conflict is affecting citizens’ daily lives.

The survey, conducted between 6 and 13 May by the Institut Balear d’Estudis Socials (IBES) among more than 1,500 residents over the age of 18, concludes that eight out of ten citizens perceive a loss of purchasing power. In addition, between 40% and 55% now report greater difficulty saving, making ends meet or maintaining leisure activities.

Rising costs for supplies and fuel

impact of the war in Iran on the Balearic Islands

The survey shows that at least 70% of respondents have noticed a rise in the cost of supplies, fuel, food, drinks and cleaning products.

In addition, 66% of residents express concern about the geopolitical consequences of the conflict, while 69% are concerned about its humanitarian impact on the civilian population.

In the economic sphere, 70% say they are very or fairly concerned about the consequences for the Spanish economy, while 61% express the same level of concern regarding the Balearic economy.

The survey also reflects changes in everyday mobility. 63% of citizens say they have changed their transport habits, while more than a third say they use their private vehicle less, which has increased the use of public transport and forms of active mobility.

Transport and tourism, the sectors causing the greatest concern

According to the study, transport is the sector citizens consider most vulnerable to the economic consequences of the conflict, with 59% of responses. It is followed by tourism, with 50%, and commerce, with 35%.

81% of respondents also believe that the conflict will have consequences for the labour market, while more than half consider that it will make economic activity more difficult.

International uncertainty is also affecting residents’ financial decisions. 34% admit that the conflict has influenced their investments: 22% have decided to postpone planned investments and 12% have abandoned them altogether.