Marie Michael Library
Title
Rum Business: Conservation, Tourism and the Bedouin of Wadi Rum
Length
25 min.
File No
646 (Storage)
Format
VHS
Description
The nomadic Bedouin have long depended upon the springs of Wadi Rum, and the area is seen as part of their tribal land. Recent increased tourism led to the growth of Bedouin-owned jeep tour businesses, amidst concerns of the environmental impact. With World Bank loans, the government has expropriated the land as a protected area and is developing its own tourist infrastructure. The Bedouin see this as an assault on their rights, freedoms and livelihoods. Is this just global business masquerading as conservation, or does Jordan have a valid claim to this precious land?