Intelligence Squared Skiing in Afghanistan: Is Tourism in Repressive Regimes Justifiable?
May 27, 2023
James Willcox, founder of Untamed Borders, shares insights on skiing in Afghanistan, exploring the balance between adventure and ethical travel. Suki Kim, a journalist renowned for her undercover work in North Korea, discusses the complexities of tourism in repressive regimes, emphasizing how it can inadvertently support oppression. Evan Dyer, a CBC senior reporter, provides a critical lens on tourism in Cuba, questioning the impact on local populations and the potential for cultural exchange. The trio dives into the moral dilemmas faced by travelers today.
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Otto Warmbier incident
- In 2016, Otto Warmbier was arrested in North Korea for removing a propaganda poster.
- He was returned to the U.S. in a coma and subsequently died, highlighting the risks of tourism in repressive states.
North Korea Tourism Critique
- Suki Kim argues that tourism in North Korea is unethical, comparing it to "hiking at Auschwitz".
- She emphasizes that it supports a repressive regime and offers a highly curated, inauthentic experience.
Canadian Tourism in Cuba
- Many Canadians view Cuba as a safe, standard Caribbean destination, unaware of its repressive government.
- They often don't realize their tourism dollars support the regime and the Cuban armed forces, who largely own tourist facilities.