Nayarit's Struggle for Equitable Coastal Development
Nayarit's coastal communities grapple with environmental threats and economic disparities from foreign-led tourism. Activism is rising, with over 40 organizations advocating for equitable solutions.
Nayarit, a state blessed with picturesque coastal landscapes, is facing a complex challenge at the intersection of tourism development, environmental preservation, and local empowerment. The Anthropological Research Institute (IIA) of UNAM sheds light on the intricacies of this issue, revealing how coastal communities are grappling with environmental conflicts and economic disparities exacerbated by the influx of tourist enclaves, predominantly fueled by foreign capital.
While tourist enclaves such as Punta de Mita attract substantial foreign investments, the benefits are not equally distributed among the local population. Ana María Salazar Peralta, a researcher at IIA, points out that despite the wealth generated by these sites, residents experience low wages, particularly highlighted during the pandemic-induced economic downturn. The health crisis has underscored the existing inequalities and precariousness within these tourist-dependent communities.
