What in the World - Wish you weren’t here! How tourism is impacting Caribbean beaches

Download Wish you weren’t here! How tourism is impacting Caribbean beaches

Tourism is a vital part of the economy for many Caribbean nations, from Jamaica to Grenada to the Bahamas. In fact, the United Nations says the Caribbean is the region of the world that’s most dependent on tourists. The sector supports millions of jobs — from barmen and waiters to cab drivers and chefs — and many of these roles go to women and young people. But what happens when developers close off beaches to locals?

BBC reporter Chelsea Coates, who has visited several Caribbean islands, explains the growing tensions across the region as countries try to balance tourism with the rights and interests of local communities. Focusing on Barbuda, a tiny island with just a few thousand residents, she looks at the impact of major developments and how local residents are reacting.

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Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: William Lee Adams, Deedee Kyeremateng and Benita Barden
Editor: Julia Ross-Roy

Published on Friday, 22nd May 2026.

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