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Peru Shows How Tourism Can Reduce Poverty

Tourism Can Reduce PovertyPeru created its national brand, “Marca Perú,” in 2011. PromPerú and the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism launched the initiative to promote the country’s global image. Its objectives include promoting Peruvian products, attracting foreign investment and boosting tourism. Machu Picchu, located in Cusco, became a central feature of this strategy, as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The campaign led to results beyond initial expectations, including new business creation and long-term poverty reduction in the region. As 2025 approaches, Marca Perú aims to replicate Cusco’s success by decentralizing tourism across the country to support development in other regions.

Success in Machu Picchu

Peruvian Society of Foreign Commerce (COMEXPERU) reported that Cusco had a poverty rate of 63.8%, which dropped to 21.6% by 2022. While other sectors, such as mining, played a role, tourism significantly contributed to local job creation. Jobs emerged around the capital and the route to Machu Picchu—from restaurants and lodges to craft shops and guiding services. The Peruvian government expanded its international promotion efforts, placing Machu Picchu at the center of its campaigns.

Research by the University of Girona in Spain found a direct link between PromPerú’s tourism promotion and job creation in Cusco, contributing to the province’s development. Since the brand’s launch, Machu Picchu has been featured in major advertising, including the 2012 launch video and targeted campaigns for specific regions such as Japan. A prominent example of this visibility includes Machu Picchu’s placement on welcome signs at Jorge Chávez International Airport.

While local management of funds remains a concern, data suggests tourism played a key role in Cusco’s recent poverty reduction. In 2024, the Ministry of Tourism reported that 2.9 million international visitors arrived in Peru. Of those, nearly 1 million visited Machu Picchu, which attracted twice as many tourists as the second most-visited site, Ollantaytambo.

Peru’s Plan to Decentralize Tourism

To spread the benefits of tourism more widely, Peru is pursuing decentralization through efforts led by both the government and Marca Perú.

  • Government Initiatives. The Peruvian government has started developing eight cableway lines to reach remote destinations. Kuélap, a fortress in the Cusco region known for its historical significance, is one such line. The improved access allows tourists to experience the site more easily. In addition, the government is offering special credit and loans to small businesses in the tourism sector—such as artisans, hostels, restaurants and guides. These loans offer low interest rates and flexible repayment to support small enterprises in underserved regions. The Ministry of Commerce also launched “Pueblos con Encanto” (Towns with Charm), a program promoting lesser-known towns like Oyantaytambo, Oxapampa and Sibaya. The initiative encourages the development of tourism in welcoming but under-visited areas.
  • Marca Perú Campaigns. Marca Perú introduced the “Peru Wow” campaign to showcase destinations and gastronomy across the country. The campaign targets international audiences in the United States (U.S.), Spain, Mexico, Germany and France, reaching an estimated 61.6 million people. A promotional video featuring astronauts aired in Times Square, showcasing Peru’s diversity to a global audience. The second campaign, “Perú, País de Dones Infinitos” (Peru, Country of Infinite Gifts), promotes national pride and cultural identity among Peruvians. The goal is to encourage domestic tourism and inspire Peruvians to share the richness of their heritage. The campaign features testimonials and short videos on social media platforms.

Expanding to New Destinations

To reduce poverty beyond Cusco, Marca Perú now promotes tourism in lesser-known but culturally and environmentally rich regions.

Moving Forward

Cusco reveals that tourism can help reduce poverty when paired with inclusive economic planning. Peru continues to develop infrastructure, promote destinations globally and foster local entrepreneurship. Decentralizing tourism could open new opportunities in high-poverty regions like Puno, where 41.6% of the population lives in poverty. A traveler’s next visit could contribute directly to sustainable development in these communities, highlighting how tourism can reduce poverty.

– Luis Felipe Rios

Luis is based in Miami, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Ha Giang Loop and its Impact on Poverty Reduction

Ha Giang LoopThe Ha Giang loop is one of the jewels in the crown of exciting activities available to travellers visiting Southeast Asia. The Ha Giang Loop provides an unforgettable and intimate glimpse into the largely untouched Ha Giang province in upper northern Vietnam. The loop generally lasts three or four days by motorbike and weaves around the rural highlands, passing through remote villages and breathtaking scenery.

Many of those fortunate enough to have embarked on the 350 km Ha Giang Loop regard the journey as a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Fortunately, the increased influx of adventurous travellers into Ha Giang is slowly beginning to make a tangible positive impact on the lives of many local people.

The Power of Tourism

Tourism is a valuable asset and conduit which can drive economic development and reduce poverty. Through the multiplier effect, tourism, particularly backpacker tourism, can significantly positively impact the areas they visit. In Vietnam, every job in the tourism sector, generates another 1.5 jobs elsewhere.

Ha Giang province contains some of the poorest districts in the whole of Vietnam. The mountainous topography and often challenging climate of the region provide obstructive barriers to traditional agricultural development. Moreover, the population of Ha Giang consists of more than 20 different ethnic groups, with the largest being the H’mong people known for their distinctive traditional clothing and intricate craftsmanship.

The ethnic groups of Vietnam make up 15% of the total population but account for more than 70% of the extremely poor. There are numerous factors behind this stark inequality including; geographical isolation, societal intricacies such as culture and language and limited access to education. Many ethnic groups have failed to fully benefit from the sweeping positive initiatives and developments enacted across Vietnam over the past two decades.

Positive Developments in Ha Giang

In recent times, the Dong Van province within Ha Giang has made positive development strides through agricultural reforms. To combat the agrarian difficulties inflicted by the terrain and climate, local farmers were encouraged to switch to alternative crops such as rice hybrids and corn. Additionally, many local farmers have now become effective cultivators of honey, as a result of interest-free loans being allocated to prospective beekeepers.

The cultivation of buckwheat has also proved to be profitable, and the annual Dong Van Buckwheat Festival attracts many tourists which provides an additional valuable source of revenue for the locality. Moreover, employment initiatives to support handicrafts and flax weaving enterprises have secured employment prospects for many local women.

These policies have greatly aided the widespread inclusion and involvement of poorer households and erected multiple avenues for potential income and revenue. Consequently,  living conditions have greatly improved and poverty rates in the province, which were once as high as 18.5%, have fallen by more than 6%.

Charitable Efforts

The Blue Dragon Foundation helps to empower ethnic minority women in Ha Giang by preventing the exploitation and trafficking of women and providing educational resources. Blue Dragon also assists families by teaching life skills and helping to develop sustainable income sources through the provision of livestock.

Thon Tha is a responsible tourism co-operative that aims to help develop local communities to access a better life, by providing visitors with an authentic and responsible Vietnamese travel experience. Established in 2014, Thon Tha works to reduce poverty by creating long-term sustainable visions for local people. Their work includes; creating job opportunities through services such as homestays and bike rental shops; preserving cultural traditions and discouraging employment activities such as street vendors; and providing authentic travel experiences to showcase true Vietnam.

Problems of Tourism Development

Ha Giang welcomes more than 2 million visitors annually, in turn earning an estimated $200 million from the tourism industry. The province was also named Asia’s leading emerging tourist hotspot in 2023. However, Ha Giang suffers from a distinct lack of proper tourist infrastructure and is currently incapable of fully capitalizing on the proliferation of visitors to the area. However, the government established initiatives such as tax exemptions for homestays, as well as charging small fees for visitors to access particular areas to help bolster the burgeoning of tourism.

Conclusion

The Ha Giang Loop is already having a direct positive impact on the local people, by providing locals with important sources of additional income. As a direct result of the loop, enterprising locals are capitalizing on the newly buoyant tourism industry by establishing homestays and roadside shops.

It is encouraging to see the direct positive impacts arising from the popularity of the loop. However, careful management and nurtured responsibility remain vitally important for the upsurge of tourism in Ha Giang. Thus, ensuring sustainability in the accretion of tourism generated revenue into the region going forward; and in turn the ensuing continued reduction of poverty.

– Ollie Roberts

Ollie is based in North Wales and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Innovations in poverty eradication in Barbados

poverty eradication in BarbadosBarbados is an eastern Caribbean island with a population of about 282,000. Being a small island, Barbados is very susceptible to economic disturbances caused by external factors such as natural disasters as well as raises in import costs. COVID-19 also played a huge factor in an increase in poverty on the island, drastically affecting tourism, one of the island’s main sources of income. There have been many innovations in poverty eradication in Barbados including a post-COVID-19 tourist boom, as well as government-led plans and programs which target the economy to alleviate poverty on the island.

Tourism Effect

The increase in tourists to pre-COVID-19 levels has definitely helped the poverty issue within Barbados as the economy has since grown by 4.5% with the return of tourists to the island post-pandemic. GDP rose 4% just in 2024 in Barbados, and both tourism and manufacturing have seen a 5.5% increase in the traded sector while non-traded sectors went up by 3.7%.

The number of prolonged tourist visits in Barbados increased by 10.7%, and the number of cruise calls increased by 53, causing a 40.8% rise in tourists by cruise, according to the Central Bank of Barbados. These event tactics that focus on tourist booms are critical to the economy and are a huge innovation in poverty eradication in Barbados as their economy relies heavily on tourism, as 50% of export income is attributed to tourism, and is truly a driving point for the economy.

The Role of BERT

Along with tourism, there are multiple ongoing and promising government-led plans, one of the most prominent being the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT). BERT recently received support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) along with the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) as well as an arrangement by the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). Help from these facilities if approved by the IMF would mean a total of $56 million between both facilities would be made available to BERT.

BERT is one of the most important innovations in poverty eradication in Barbados as it has been working and reimplemented since 2018 in a mission to restore and support the macroeconomics of the island, by doing structural reforms and shifting towards a more tourism based economy.

BERT has also worked against certain external shock factors such as natural disasters to not disrupt the visitor-based economy it is building. It has started the Stormwater Management Act to combat flood risks, has started to shy away from fossil fuels and is looking at renewable energy sources to prevent economic growth from stunting due to such factors.

The BERT plan was based on the government’s anti-poverty alignment and strives for long-standing and sustainable growth and has so far proven to be beneficial to the island. In combination with new tourism business and tactics, Barbados is on the right track toward economic success. These innovations in poverty eradication in Barbados have benefited Barbados greatly as unemployment rates drop, and domestic business has increased since both the tourist boom and the reimplementation of BERT.

– Cheyenne Weller

Cheyenne is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

The Truth About the Caribbean Tourism Industry

Caribbean Tourism IndustryDespite the Caribbean tourism industry contributing more than $60 billion to the total Caribbean GDP in 2022, the average poverty rate in the Caribbean is 30%. While the Caribbean is incredibly dependent on the tourism industry to provide jobs and boost the national economies, low-wage labor and the concentration of wealth in foreign hands are perpetuating the poverty of local communities.

The Situation

The Caribbean’s history of colonization and exploitation of resources created long-lasting socio-economic disparities. Many Caribbean countries still face economic dependency, political instability and exploitation through unfair trade policies and foreign-controlled industries like tourism, according to Caribbean Issues.

Many governments across the Caribbean offer concessions, land or building rights and other incentives to the Caribbean tourism industry to stimulate economic activity and create jobs, despite these jobs often being low-wage. Instead of contributing to the local economy, the majority of profits go to foreign corporations. Governments may continue supporting the tourism sector due to its immediate economic contributions, but the benefits are not as significant or long-lasting for the local population as they are for tourists or international investors.

Cruise Ships

In 2023,  there were 32.2 million tourist visits to the Caribbean and 31.1 million of those visits came from cruise ships alone. Rather than supporting the local economy, cruise lines provide low-cost excursions, profiting immensely while providing few jobs for locals. Additionally, Caribbean countries often invest heavily in port infrastructure for essential trade and end up losing the space to cruise ships. On top of everything, cruise ships often evade environmental regulations, disrespecting the beautiful oceans that allure tourists in the first place by harming the already fragile ocean ecosystems.

Solutions

The Bahamas Family Islands’ Destination Stewardship Initiative is a program that empowers local communities to take a leadership role in the development and management of tourism, with an emphasis on making sure economic rewards stay within local communities. This initiative, which earned the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s 2023 Destination Stewardship Award, aims to rebuild tourism in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and a fiscal crisis. Through the creation of four Destination Stewardship Councils, the initiative has prioritized community involvement in decision-making, giving residents a direct stake in shaping their tourism economies.

By working with stakeholders including the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, the initiative has ensured that tourism development reflects community values and priorities such as waste management, cultural heritage preservation and visitor safety. Sustainable waste management, cultural site preservation and safety improvements are all initiatives that enhance the overall visitor experience while generating new business and employment opportunities for residents. The Ministry of Tourism is committed to expanding the initiative, with plans to establish more councils across the Family Islands.

This expansion could ensure that even more communities benefit from tourism’s economic potential while maintaining a focus on responsible, community-led development that supports long-term sustainability and economic stability. The Bahamas Family Islands’ Destination Stewardship Initiative is a positive step toward addressing the socio-economic disparities created by the Caribbean’s dependence on the foreign-controlled Caribbean tourism industry.

– Nina Bujewski

Nina is based in San Luis Obispo, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Backpacking in Indonesia Can Help Reduce Poverty

How Backpacking in Indonesia Can Help Reduce PovertyThe widespread availability of international travel has allowed many young people to embark on extended trips known as backpacking. Backpacking gained popularity in the late 20th century with the establishment of the hippie trail, an overland route stretching from London to Pakistan. Travelers were drawn to its promise of tropical landscapes, freedom from drug restrictions and an escape from routine life. Nowadays, backpacking has become an unofficial rite of passage for many young travelers. Fortunately, a backpacking trip offers a life-changing experience and benefits the communities visited.

4 Ways Backpacking in Indonesia Can Help Fight Poverty

  1. Economic Impact. According to the United Nations (U.N.) World Tourism Agency, tourism contributes around 10% of global GDP. Additionally, tourism is recognized as the world’s largest voluntary transfer of wealth from wealthy to poorer populations. Tourism injects capital into local economies and drives development, particularly in low-income nations. Indonesia prioritizes tourism as part of its national development strategy. In regions where tourism dominates the economy, poverty rates are 1.5% to 3.4% lower compared to areas with less tourist activity. Furthermore, tourist spending boosts household income in both rural and urban Indonesia by up to 6%.
  2. Employment. Backpackers create jobs in the destinations they visit. Their presence in areas beyond conventional tourist hotspots stimulates demand for budget accommodations, traditional cuisine and nature-based activities such as rafting and trekking. These industries support labor-intensive employment, encourage gender inclusivity and promote local entrepreneurship. For example, in Ubud, a backpacker hub in Bali, street vendors and restaurants like Bu Mangku’s have capitalized on travelers’ demand for authentic Balinese cuisine. Selling popular dishes such as Betutu chicken has created jobs for local farmers, market vendors and restaurant staff. This illustrates the economic benefits of backpacker tourism. By favoring locally produced goods and services, backpackers help prevent economic leakage, discourage urban migration and reduce wealth inequality.
  3. Societal and Cultural Impacts. Backpackers tend to immerse themselves in local communities, fostering demand for authentic cultural experiences. This incentivizes the preservation of indigenous traditions. In Indonesia, particularly in Ubud, interest in cultural tourism has revived traditional performing arts such as Balinese Barong and Le Gong dances. This appreciation encourages younger generations to embrace their heritage while creating economic opportunities for performers and artisans.
  4. Mobilization and Awareness. While backpacking through Indonesia, travelers witness both the hospitality of locals and the stark poverty that exists in some regions. Awareness alone marks a step toward positive change. Backpackers are in a position to contribute, whether through supporting local businesses, volunteering or raising awareness. Traveling instills lasting values of gratitude, empathy and open-mindedness, fostering a sense of responsibility toward the communities that host them.

Looking Forward

Backpacking in Indonesia has the potential to support economic development, create jobs and promote cultural preservation. However, sustainable tourism requires responsible practices that prioritize community well-being. Ensuring that local populations remain key stakeholders in tourism initiatives is essential to maximizing the industry’s role in poverty alleviation. By making thoughtful travel choices, backpackers can potentially help ensure that their adventures contribute to a more equitable and prosperous future for the communities they visit.

– Ollie Roberts

Ollie is based in the UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty in Southeastern Turkey: A Brighter Future

A Brighter Future for the Southeastern Regions of TurkeyThe southeastern regions of Turkey face significant challenges as the poorest part of the country, struggling with underdevelopment and ethnic tensions. Recent developments, however, provide hope for a revitalized future in this historically rich area. The government plans to invest $14 billion in the region, a move aimed at reducing poverty and creating economic opportunities. Coupled with the normalization of relations with post-Assad Syria and Kurdish groups, this could transform the area and stimulate growth. This investment focuses on developing agricultural infrastructure to bolster the regional economy. Officials expect the initiative to create more than 500,000 jobs, offering a much-needed boost to local livelihoods.

Poverty in Southeastern Turkey and the GAP Project

Southeastern Anatolia ranks among Turkey’s regions with the lowest average income. Despite limited research on poverty in the region, existing studies indicate that conditions have seen little improvement since the early 2000s. The $14 billion investment aims to partially fund the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP) with the hopes it can continue its construction of needed infrastructure.

The GAP project was launched in the 70s as a region-wide investment project to provide the energy and water infrastructure to support an economic boom. However, throughout its history, the project continues to falter in its aims of revitalization. With renewed government support, the region now has a chance to attract further investment and drive sustainable development.

Insights from Mardin

The city of Mardin illustrates many of the challenges facing southeastern Turkey. This ancient city, which dates back to the Neo-Assyrian period, highlights the region’s rich history and its socioeconomic struggles. Mardin suffers from one of the country’s highest relative at-risk-of-poverty rates at 14.4%.

In 2021, Dr. Nurdan Atalay conducted ethnographic research in Mardin, revealing how top-down financialization and investment strategies exacerbate economic inequality and limit employment opportunities for women. In her book chapter, she noted, “…the women in this neighborhood have very limited opportunities to change their position in society… The impending economic crisis has the potential to worsen their situation.”

Mardin also accommodates a large population of refugees who fled Syria’s civil war and the 2023 earthquakes. More than 88,000 Syrian refugees live in the city, contending with the trauma of displacement and the strain on local resources. Reports detail the economic burden that border cities faced during the Syrian conflict. With the end of Assad’s rule, many refugees now look toward a hopeful future and the possibility of returning home.

The Potential of Tourism

Neighboring political progress isn’t the only cause for optimism in southeastern Turkey. The tourism industry holds immense potential to reduce poverty in the region. This area, rich in historical monuments and natural beauty, stands poised for economic growth if supported by infrastructure and investment.

The 1982 Tourism Incentives Act excluded southeastern Turkey, denying the region the development needed for a thriving tourism sector. Despite this, cities like Mardin actively seek to expand their tourism potential. Research indicates that Mardin’s residents support tourism growth, which promises to benefit both urban and rural communities.

In 2023, Mardin welcomed nearly 650,000 tourists, reflecting the industry’s growing role in the local economy. By fostering tourism, southeastern Turkey can unlock new opportunities for sustainable development and cultural preservation.

A New Chapter for Southeastern Turkey

With the government’s $14 billion investment and the prospect of peace in Syria, poverty in southeastern Turkey faces a turning point. The region’s lack of infrastructure has long created a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. This new funding and strategic focus could break that cycle, paving the way for meaningful progress and prosperity.

– Charley Dennis

Charley is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Ecotourism for Reducing Poverty in Indigenous Communities

Ecotourism for Reducing Poverty in Indigenous CommunitiesEcotourism refers to responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of the local people. Conservationists describe ecotourism as a potentially positive way to use markets as direct economic incentives to protect biodiversity and landscapes and reduce poverty in Indigenous communities, offering opportunities to alleviate poverty. Ecotourism markets can act as catalysts of change with opportunities for stable employment, cultural preservation, infrastructure development and environmental sustainability. Poorly managed markets often lead to social conflict, cultural disintegration, loss of identity and resource overexploitation. Despite these ongoing challenges, ecotourism provides a sustainable path to improving livelihoods and reducing poverty in Indigenous communities when implemented responsibly.

Cambodia’s Banteay Chhmar

The Banteay Chhmar temple in northwest Cambodia is an iconic cultural and historical site that endured years of neglect, looting and insufficient conservation funding. Khiri Travel, a sustainable travel company, partnered with the local community in 2007 to develop a community-based tourism project that aimed to generate income for local villagers and conservation while providing authentic experiences for visitors. Central to the project is the involvement of local villagers and the improvement of community infrastructure, including clean water access and waste management systems. Since its launch, the project has generated more than $100,000 in revenue per year and created employment opportunities for more than 100 villagers. The project has won several awards for its innovative and sustainable approach, serving as a model for similar initiatives in Cambodia and beyond.

The Maasai Community in Kenya

In Kenya, the Maasai community has embraced ecotourism as a means to reduce poverty while preserving their unique cultural identity and the natural environment. Through initiatives like the Mara Conservancies, local Maasai landowners partner with tourism operators to create community conservancies, with agreements that ensure a portion of tourism revenue is directed toward local development projects, including schools, health care facilities and water systems. Ecotourism projects in the Maasai community have provided numerous employment opportunities for community members, introduced programs to preserve traditional Maasai practices and incentivized sustainable land management. By empowering the local community, fostering cultural preservation and promoting sustainable practices, ecotourism offers a pathway for the Maasai community to thrive economically while safeguarding their heritage and ecosystems.

The Potato Park in Peru

In the Andes of Peru, the Potato Park is a pioneering example of ecotourism that is driven by indigenous knowledge and biodiversity conservation. Local Quechua communities manage the park and dedicate it to preserving the hundreds of native potato varieties that define the region’s agricultural heritage. Revenue from ecotourism has improved local livelihoods, reduced poverty in Quechua communities and strengthened cultural identity and food sovereignty. The Potato Park serves as a global model for integrating ecotourism, conservation and sustainable development, inspiring similar projects by showing how traditional knowledge drives conservation and development. The park’s successes underscore its role as a transformative tool for poverty reduction and environmental stewardship. 

Balancing Opportunities and Challenges

While ecotourism has emerged as a transformative tool for reducing poverty in Indigenous communities, there are also potential challenges. There is a risk of cultural commodification, where the need to cater to tourists may pressure communities to alter or commercialize cultural traditions. In addition, relying on tourism revenue makes communities vulnerable to external shocks, such as economic downturns or global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite this, there have been numerous successful examples of ecotourism projects. These cases demonstrate how ecotourism, when implemented responsibly, can potentially provide a sustainable means of poverty alleviation. To maximize the benefits of ecotourism, initiatives could prioritize community involvement, transparent governance and adaptive strategies that ensure resilience against external shocks. By empowering local communities, fostering cultural preservation and promoting environmental stewardship, ecotourism initiatives offer a pathway to reducing poverty in indigenous communities while safeguarding their heritage for future generations.

– Isobel Hurst

Isobel is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Troglodyte Homes in Libya and Tunisia

Troglodyte Homes in Libya and TunisiaHistoric troglodyte homes, located in North Africa, Libya and Tunisia are important to the cultural identity and heritage of the Amazigh community. The city of Matmata, Tunisia, once a thriving hub for tourists, now faces an uncertain future due to political instability and economic challenges. Similarly, Libya is also known for its underground homes and Roman ruins. However, questions are being raised about the viability of tourism as a source of community income amid ongoing economic and political turmoil. These challenges underscore the precarious situation of preserving and leveraging cultural sites for economic benefit in both countries.

Troglodyte Homes

Troglodyte homes, extraordinary underground residences sculpted from rock exemplify a blend of cultural heritage and environmental adaptation. The term “troglodyte,” from the Greek for “cave dweller,” scarcely captures the sophistication of these structures. Historically, the Amazigh people of North Africa, particularly in Tunisia and Libya, have constructed these homes to endure the harsh desert conditions. Ideally suited for the region’s dry, fluctuating climate, these homes stay cool during the intense summers and warm in the winters.

Like those in Libya, the troglodyte houses in Tunisia’s Matmata region feature large central courtyards that serve as communal grounds, enhancing airflow and providing shared space for families. Similarly, notable troglodyte sites exist in Libya, particularly in the city of Gharyan. These traditional homes remain a vital part of the Amazigh people’s heritage despite the rapid pace of globalization. However, as more people relocate to urban areas, the troglodyte dwellings in Tunisia and Libya face risks of abandonment and degradation.

Tourism: A Lifeline for the Region and its Inhabitants

For decades, the troglodyte homes in Libya and Tunisia have historically attracted tourists eager to experience the heritage and ingenuity of ancient Amazigh communities. Tourism provided crucial support for local communities, including artisans, guilds and homeowners. 

In Matmata, tourism has been a foundation of the local economy, with many families transforming their homes into guest accommodations and museums. Conversely, tourism in Libya has traditionally been limited. Nevertheless, it has allowed communities in the Nafusa Mountains to share their heritage with the world and fellow Libyans. Some structures in the area, more than 2000 years old, have been largely abandoned due to instability. Despite Libya’s wealth of historical sites, including Roman ruins and coastal landmarks, tourism struggles to flourish amid the ongoing political and economic turmoil.

The Challenges and Decline in Tourism

In recent years, factors have contributed to the decline of tourism in these regions:

  • Political Instability and Security. Since the fall of Muammar Al-Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has faced major economic setbacks and ongoing conflict, leading to instability, militia warfare and the absence of a centralized government. This prolonged conflict has left many of Libya’s significant cultural sites neglected and deterred both local and international tourism. Meanwhile, in Tunisia, despite improved national security, terrorist attacks targeting tourists in 2015 sharply reduced the number of international visitors. This decline in tourism, particularly affecting Tunisia’s underground homes, has significantly impacted the local communities that once relied on tourism as a vital source of income.
  • Global Economic Factors. Global economics, particularly the uncertainties and aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly impacted tourism in the region by disrupting international and national travel. Remote areas like Matmata, which relied heavily on tourism for economic survival, felt this impact acutely. Consequently, local communities in Matmata are experiencing severe financial hardship. Many residents who once depended on income from tourism, selling handicrafts and offering tours, now struggle to sustain their livelihoods.

Efforts by International Organizations

International organizations such as UNESCO and various NGOs are focusing efforts on raising awareness and providing funds for cultural heritage preservation. While UNESCO has not designated the Troglodyte homes in Libya as World Heritage sites, it does protect other Libyan sites like Leptis Magna and the old town of Ghadames. In Tunisia, local communities have tried to preserve troglodyte homes by converting them into guest houses, although these ongoing efforts often fall short without sufficient funding. Meanwhile, the Tunisian government is actively promoting tourism in areas like Matmata through government-led campaigns.

Looking Ahead

The troglodyte homes in Libya and Tunisia, architectural treasures, face the risk of neglect and oblivion. With tourism affected by political, economic and global challenges, the urgency for sustained international and local preservation efforts grows.

– Gufran Elhrari

Gufran is based in London, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything to Know About Elderly Poverty in Antigua and Barbuda

Elderly Poverty in Antigua and Barbuda 
Antigua and Barbuda is a Caribbean country consisting of the two main islands and several smaller islands with 97% of the country’s population located in Antigua. The British colonized the country in the 17th century and transported a large population of enslaved Africans to work on sugar and tobacco plantations. After the emancipation of slavery in 1834, the economy struggled due to the heavy reliance on sugar production. In 1981, the country gained full independence from the U.K. and opted to remain in the Commonwealth. The country’s legacy of colonialism still affects the current economic state. 

Economic Effect on Elders

People aged 60 years and older have a higher likelihood of suffering from extreme poverty at 4.2% than the rest of the population at 3.7%. Poverty is more prevalent in rural areas due to limited access to services, transportation and economic opportunities. Access to affordable health care is also a major issue caused by elderly poverty in Antigua and Barbuda. The costs of medical care, including medications and treatments for chronic conditions strain the limited resources of those who experience elderly poverty in Antigua and Barbuda.

Many charitable and nonprofit organizations provide health care services in Antigua and Barbuda. St. John’s Hospice is a charity that provides hospice care to the terminally ill. The organization provides both in-home and inpatient care through the proceeds from a shop run by the charity located in Antigua, as well as fundraising and donations.

The Environment and Tourism

Caribbean countries are more vulnerable to extreme weather events and natural disasters. Environmental devastation affects the ability to conduct tourism and the economy since the tourism industry makes up more than 50% of the country’s GDP and is responsible for more than 46% of the national employment. 

Elderly poverty in Antigua and Barbuda is disproportionately affected by hits to the labor market. According to a 2018 Labour Force Survey Report, the employment-to-population ratio is lowest in seniors 65 and older. Both environmental issues and the tourism industry affect housing. Environmental disasters destroy buildings. The tourism industry pushes locals away from coastal land and into areas with fewer resources. Jamaica Kincaid describes tourism as a neo-colonial structure that exploits the land and local population and is responsible for the economy. 

USAID/OFDA provided disaster relief services for Antigua and Barbuda, including getting resources to more than 400 hurricane-affected households in 2018. Since 2010, it has provided $95 million to support disaster risk reduction programs in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Conclusion

Despite challenges from Antigua and Barbuda’s colonial past and a heavy reliance on tourism, the country is home to a vibrant community working towards a brighter future. With continued efforts from local and international groups, there is hope for sustainable development and a better quality of life for all citizens, especially those affected by elderly poverty in Antigua and Barbuda.

– Nina Bujewski

Nina is based in San Luis Obispo, CA, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Poverty and the Preservation of Cultural Heritage in Ghana

Poverty and Cultural Heritage Preservation in Ghana Ghana, known for its vibrant culture and historical significance, faces the dual challenge of poverty and the need for sustainable development. This West African nation’s rich traditions not only draw tourists but also serve as pillars for economic support. Preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage could be a key strategy in combating poverty and enhancing sustainable development. By leveraging its rich history and diverse cultural assets, Ghana could empower local communities and stimulate economic growth, addressing poverty through cultural conservation.

Cultural Heritage as an Economic Catalyst

Preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage offers more than a nostalgic look back; it promises economic revitalization. Ghana, known for its ancient traditions and diverse ethnic groups, provides a rich foundation for cultural tourism. Consider the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, which stand as powerful reminders of the nation’s intricate history. These sites preserve the memory of the transatlantic slave trade and serve as economic engines through tourism. Similarly, initiatives like the Nzulezu Stilt Village in the Western Region showcase the unique architectural heritage of Ghana’s indigenous communities. There, guided tours and local craftsmanship provide sustainable livelihoods for the residents.

Community-Based Approaches

Empowering the community is central to successfully preserving cultural heritage in Ghana. Community-based approaches focus on actively involving local populations in every part of the decision-making process, aligning preservation initiatives with the cultural values and aspirations of the people. For example, the Nzulezu Stilt Village serves not only as a tourist attraction but also showcases the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the Nzema community in surviving and thriving in their environment.

Residents actively participate in managing the site and guide visitors on how to care for the surrounding ecosystem. Similarly, the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board collaborates with communities across the nation to develop heritage conservation plans that incorporate traditional knowledge and practices.

These ongoing initiatives have raised awareness among communities about their roles as custodians of their heritage, empowering them with greater ownership and agency. This empowerment helps ensure social cohesion and resilience against external forces of change.

Traditional Knowledge for Sustainable Development

Cultural heritage plays a vital role in achieving sustainable development goals in Ghana. Generations have passed down traditional knowledge systems that significantly contribute to sustainable resource management and environmental care. For example, the Kente weaving tradition of the Ashanti people not only preserves cultural identity but also promotes sustainable practices like natural dyeing and ethical material sourcing. By integrating this traditional knowledge into current development policies, Ghana can better address contemporary challenges such as climate extremes and food insecurity while leveraging the wisdom of its ancestors.

Cultural Heritage as a Tool for Social Unity

Cultural heritage preservation unites people in Ghana, offering a platform for social inclusion and reducing ethnic, religious and socioeconomic divisions prevalent in the country. Celebrations and festivals, such as the Chale Wote Street Art Festival in Accra, play a pivotal role in enhancing cultural diversity and encouraging dialogue among different communities. These events not only reinforce national identity but also promote mutual understanding and cohesion among Ghana’s diverse population.

Creating Opportunities Through Innovation

Despite the pivotal role of cultural heritage in sustainable development, it faces numerous challenges such as underfunding, inadequate infrastructure and pressures from urbanization and globalization. To combat these ongoing challenges, Ghana is exploring innovative solutions such as public-private partnerships and community-based ecotourism initiatives. Leveraging digital technologies and investing in education and capacity-building can potentially empower local communities, enabling them to take an active role in preserving and promoting their cultural heritage while fostering economic growth and sustainability.

Looking Ahead

Ghana’s focus on preserving cultural heritage positions it uniquely to foster economic growth and community empowerment. By integrating traditional knowledge and local involvement in heritage sites, Ghana could sustainably enhance its tourism sector and provide substantive benefits to its communities. Continued investment and innovation in cultural conservation promise to build stronger, more resilient communities while promoting a diverse and unified national identity.

– Honorine Lanka Perera

Honorine is based in Highland, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

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