Disaster tourism swamps tsunami-hit regions
They come in hordes with truckloads of relief material and a newfound urge to serve, but their presence is doing more harm than good in many areas hit hard by the December killer tsunamis of India. As unseemly as it sounds, these well-meaning people have spawned a new industry - disaster tourism.
The massive inflow of charitable organisations and aid volunteers to the tsunami-hit areas of Tamil Nadu, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Kerala, Pondicherry and Andhra Pradesh is what is now being seen as the second giant wave.
And overzealous volunteers, obsessed with the need to "do good" are making things worse - in many places.
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The massive inflow of charitable organisations and aid volunteers to the tsunami-hit areas of Tamil Nadu, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Kerala, Pondicherry and Andhra Pradesh is what is now being seen as the second giant wave.
And overzealous volunteers, obsessed with the need to "do good" are making things worse - in many places.
Read More
Angelo Embuldeniya at 11:53:00 am |
It is a pity that even in such a disaster some such as the author of these comments cannot overcome their prejudices against outsiders. How about an article helping in a constructive manner setting out how those who have the guts to go into such places and help could be more effective or for those unable to cope on the frontline how they could volunteer in some other support service.
"Disaster tourism" -- it's not just the folks who're trying to help -- and it's a good thing they're motivated in the right direction, but maybe just giving money would be better -- but those seeking to profit from the disaster mark an ugly spectre in the world's response to help.
Please note, that SEA EAT blog does not endorse any of the listed organizations. We are simply here to help you find the relevant information.
On another note, anon, I will try to weed out a post I've seen here previously on how volunteers can assist in the relief effort if they can't give donations nor volunteer by going to affected sectors.
I think the article is disgusting. Anyone who wishes to help the victims in anyway should be welcomed. I wonder if the author of the article has done anything to help the tsunami victims? Or is he just busy attacking outsiders?