Tourism and human rights

Many indigenous peoples have been living in the same area for thousands of years and are deeply rooted in this environment. Impressive natural sanctuaries are testimony to the peoples’ special spiritual connection with their surroundings. It is no wonder that sacred sites such as Uluru in Australia attract tens of thousands of visitors every year who want to experience this impressive place. “At the same time, it is important to understand that there are still people for whom this place is sacred,” stated Dr. Eliane Fernandes, expert on indigenous peoples at the Society for Threatened Peoples (STP). “Anyone who visits their sacred places should be considerate towards them – firstly, so that the sites can be preserved for the future, and secondly out of respect for the culture of the people in which they play a central role.”

Mount Uluṟu (Ayers Rock) is one of Australia’s most significant cultural sites. It is sacred to the Aṉangu Aboriginal People, who have been living there for more than 10,000 years. Against the will of the Aṉangu, it was openly accessible as a tourist attraction for decades. “Many thousands of people climbed the mountain every year, literally trampling on this sanctuary – and each time, it was an affront to the Aṉangu and their culture. Over the decades, it has also taken a toll on the mountain,” Fernandes reported. “Since 2019, it is no longer possible to just go and visit Uluru. This is a means to preserve and protect it. And even from afar, the sacred mountain remains an impressive sight. Thus, nobody who is in Australia anyway should miss it.”

An article on tourism at Uluru from the magazine “Für Vielfalt” can be found here (for free, in German)