The World Surf League (WSL) is facing sharp criticism from indigenous Fijian groups on the eve of its finals day event in Fiji. Organizations like Fiji Surf Co and Bati Protector have labeled the WSL’s operations as "exploitative," alleging that the league benefits from Fiji’s natural resources and government support without adequately compensating local communities or respecting their custodianship of the ocean and land.
Key Takeaways
- Indigenous Fijian groups accuse the WSL of exploiting Fiji’s ocean and people.
- Concerns are raised about the WSL receiving millions from Fiji’s government while many Fijians live in poverty.
- Local groups are demanding a "Pay to Play" model, arguing that Fiji’s waves are a valuable resource.
- The WSL’s long-standing presence in Fiji is questioned for its economic benefit to the local population.
Accusations of Exploitation
Fiji Surf Co and Bati Protector have voiced strong opposition to the WSL’s presence, highlighting that 95% of Fiji’s ocean and land is owned by resource custodians. They argue that the WSL has been leveraging Fiji’s world-class waves for nearly 25 years, receiving substantial government funding while local communities, many of whom are struggling with poverty, see little direct benefit. The groups are calling for a "Pay to Play" system, asserting that the WSL, with its multi-million dollar sponsors and broadcasting rights, should directly compensate the resource owners for the use of their waves.
Government Funding and Local Poverty
The criticism is particularly pointed given Fiji’s economic situation, with reports indicating that one in four Fijians live below the poverty line. The groups argue that the government should prioritize its citizens’ needs over subsidizing a wealthy international sports league. They contend that Fiji’s natural beauty and waves are a global draw that markets itself, and the WSL should not be receiving taxpayer money for promotion.
A Call for Respect and Fair Compensation
The indigenous groups emphasize their role as guardians of Fiji’s natural resources, drawing parallels to historical leadership in protecting their ancestral lands and waters. They are urging the WSL to respect the local people and resources, warning against the potential for environmental and social damage left behind after the event concludes. The sentiment expressed is that Fiji needs the WSL less than the WSL needs Fiji, especially when the island nation attracts global attention and economic activity through its surf tourism.
Broader Context of Surf Events
This controversy unfolds against a backdrop of discussions about the WSL’s event formats and locations. While the WSL Finals have moved to iconic locations like Cloudbreak in Fiji, the underlying issues of economic fairness and respect for local communities remain a significant point of contention for groups like Fiji Surf Co and Bati Protector.
Sources
- WSL slammed by indigenous Fijian groups on eve of Finals Day for “exploiting Fiji’s ocean and people.” –
BeachGrit, BeachGrit.com.
