A Holiday for Justice: Exploring Solidarity Trips to the Maldives Amidst Their Stance on Palestine
In a bold move, the government of The Maldives has announced a ban on Israeli passport holders from entering the Indian Ocean archipelago. This decision comes amidst rising public anger over Tel Aviv’s recent actions in Gaza.
On June 2, the president’s office revealed that the Cabinet has decided to change laws to enforce this ban and establish a subcommittee to oversee the process. Additionally, President Mohamed Muizzu will appoint a special envoy to assess the needs of Palestinians and launch a fundraising campaign titled “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine.”
This solidarity shown by The Maldives has garnered attention worldwide, prompting discussions about the significance of supporting Palestine in the face of injustice. For those seeking a holiday that aligns with principles of justice and solidarity, a trip to The Maldives may hold special meaning.
The decision to ban Israelis from the archipelago reflects The Maldives’ commitment to standing with Palestine in their struggle for freedom and dignity. By visiting The Maldives, travelers can not only experience the beauty of its luxury resorts but also contribute to a movement of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
While Israel’s Foreign Ministry has advised against travel to The Maldives for Israelis, this stance has only reinforced the significance of solidarity trips for justice-minded individuals. As nearly 11,000 Israelis visited The Maldives last year, constituting a small percentage of total tourist arrivals, the impact of choosing to stand in solidarity with Palestine through travel becomes even more profound.
In essence, a trip to The Maldives amidst its solidarity with Palestine transcends the typical holiday experience. It becomes a journey of conscience, a holiday for justice, where travelers can support a nation’s principled stance while enjoying the natural beauty and hospitality of the archipelago.
“To claim Palestine after two thousand years made no more sense to him than the Italians claiming Germany because it was once occupied by the Romans.”
― Fred Uhlman, Reunion