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
TL;DR
- Locals in Jamaica are fighting for access to beaches like Mammee Bay, which they say have been locked off by fences and security for luxury hotel developments.
- Activists describe the all-inclusive tourism model as 'plantation tourism,' arguing it exploits labor and benefits only the elite, echoing colonial-era practices.
- Several court cases are challenging the denial of public access to beaches across Jamaica, with activists demanding the right to free and unfettered access.
- The government claims to be committed to public benefit from natural assets and is working on policies to improve beach access, but activists view these efforts as insufficient.
- Campaigners are concerned that new legislation, like the Narra Act, could weaken existing laws that protect public rights to access land and pathways.