Francesca Albanese Urges Indonesia to Reject Tourists Involved in Palestinian Genocide

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, urged Indonesia's tourism industry to prioritize moral integrity over financial gain by refusing entry to those involved in the genocide in Gaza.

"Would Indonesia's tourism be harmed if it did not welcome soldiers who have committed crimes in Gaza without any remorse? Would losing 1,000, 100,000, or 100 tourists damage the economy? Perhaps, but for me, moral values are far more important than money, and I believe this is the choice we must make," Albanese stated after a discussion at Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM), Cikini, Jakarta, on Wednesday night (21/10/2026).

She cited initiatives by Italian citizens who openly reject involvement in war crimes and genocide.

Albanese encouraged both the public and tourism operators in Indonesia to take a firm stance.

"I’ve seen this type of action in my own country. For instance, putting up banners stating 'No Place for Genocide Here' clearly asserts a position at every tourist destination and in restaurants; it is a significant statement," she expressed.

According to her, such banners can also make those involved in genocide reconsider their actions.

She admitted that some soldiers recognize their wrongdoing.

"There are soldiers who realize the mistakes and crimes they have committed, and they are now working to change the system. There are also soldiers who have taken their own lives upon recognizing what they have done to the Palestinian people," she explained.

She emphasized that firmness at both global and local levels is crucial to prevent the normalization of crimes against humanity.

Thus, it is essential to raise awareness about not profiting from the consequences of genocide.

"If I were an entrepreneur, I would not want to profit from wealth resulting from genocide, whether directly or indirectly. So, this is a choice for everyone in the tourism industry and for every human being in this country and around the world," she asserted.