Burma is a country that has long captivated the imagination of travellers around the world.  But how does the presence of tourists impact the welfare of the people of Burma? 

Their suffering at the hands of the country's military dictatorship is well documented.  There is a very compelling and complex debate as to whether tourists should support tourism to Burma, or whether they should support the travel boycott until the situation improves.

Voices for Burma is an independent, not-for-profit NGO dedicated to promoting travel to Burma to be done so responsibly.  The stakes are high, and a bit of information can go a long way...

Possible change of heart?

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Burmese opposition leader, who was recently sentenced to a further 18 months' house arrest, was reportedly quoted in August 2009 by a close acquaintance (not yet identified but reportedly from her party the National League of Democracy) as saying that travel to her country can now be encouraged, provided arrangements are made through private organisations. According to the source, she now believes that tourism might be beneficial, should the result of the visit draw attention to the oppression of the people by the military junta.

However, in following days, the NLD released an official report denying these words were uttered...

Yet, what we do know, is that U Win Tin, aged 80, and a co-founder of the NLD who was recently released from 19 years in prison told Martin Fletcher of The Times, as published on 12 December 2009:

"We welcome foreigners in this country if their money doesn't help the junta."