|
Indonesia's
latest luxury tourist destination has only just begun
construction, and already it is one giant human rights
violation. Mandalika lies to the east of Bali on the
Indonesian island of Lombok — it's a beautiful area of
coastland with gorgeous waters at its base and majestic green
mountains in the distance. Mandalika has practically been
untouched by tourism up until now, which has made it possible
for families there to build community and industry for
generations. But now, the Indonesian government is
aggressively backing programs to punch up its tourism industry
at the direct expense of these locals, their
homes, and their human rights.
Make no mistake, this new luxury
destination, lauded as "the new Bali," will only serve
outsiders and those who stand to profit from their tourism,
and will only hurt and disenfranchise the actual communities
of Mandalika. The 3,000 square acre project includes
plans for massive luxury hotels like Club Med and a Grand Prix
motorcycle circuit — the construction of which have forced
local residents to relocate with their families, livestock,
and nowhere to go. Many are living near development sites that
are completely unsafe. Locals have experienced threats,
intimidation, and forcible eviction; the United Nations has even come out against the
project which they say is "trampling on human
rights."
This plan has taken away the
security, community, and livelihood of the people of
Mandalika, and offers no alternative places to live or ways to
make money, essentially dooming them all in the name of rich
tourists' dream beach getaways. Act now and urge the government of Indonesia to
look after these people by making sure their jobs, housing,
and community are secured now and well into the
future!
Thank you,
 |
|
Lauren The Care2 Petitions Team
|
P.S.
Indonesia's latest tourism project is ruining the lives of
people who actually live there. Sign the petition. |
|