Jamaica’s beach access crisis: ‘We shouldn’t be forced to fight for what is already ours’
Activists in Jamaica are challenging the privatization of public beaches, arguing that the 'plantation tourism' model excludes locals from coastal access. The movement seeks to reclaim historical rights to shorelines currently controlled by luxury hotel developers.
Why it matters
The conflict highlights the tension between economic development through tourism and the social rights of local communities in the Caribbean.
The Blue Lagoon has a fluid colour palette that is turquoise, sapphire or azure depending on how the sun hits it. Photograph: Destinee Condison/The Guardian View image in fullscreen The Blue Lagoon has a fluid colour palette that is turquoise, sapphire or azure depending on how the sun hits it. Photograph: Destinee Condison/The Guardian Cotton Capital: ongoing series Jamaica Jamaica’s beach access crisis: ‘We shouldn’t be forced to fight for what is already ours’ Activists argue business model is ‘plantation tourism’ designed to benefit elite and disadvantage most Jamaicans
The framing focuses on social justice and the negative impacts of corporate tourism on local populations.
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