Some advocacy groups discourage tourism to Burma which receives severe international critisism for it's human rights records. However more recently Tourism has been promoted by advocacy groups as a method of providing economic benefit to Burmese civilians, and to avoid isolating the country from the rest of the world. Voices for Burma, a pro-democracy advocate group, states, "We believe that small-scale, responsible tourism can create more benefits than harm. So long as tourists are fully aware of the situation and take steps to maximise their positive impact and minimise the negatives, we feel their visit can be beneficial overall. Responsible tourists can help Burma primarily by bringing money to local communities and small businesses, and by raising awareness of the situation worldwide."
Liveaboard diving in the Mergui Archipelago is a perfect example of small scale responsible tourism and over the last 15 years or so we have seen how tourism cash into Kawthaung (Victoria Point) has improved the quality of life for the Burmese living there. |
