Upholding Balance and Opportunity: Defending Israeli Tourism in Sri Lanka

In the current discourse around over-tourism and the presence of Israeli visitors in Sri Lanka, it is crucial to present a balanced, fact-based perspective that does not allow misinformation or political bias to overshadow the practical realities and mutual benefits of this relationship. As a country that follows a non-aligned foreign policy, Sri Lanka must maintain neutrality and fairness in its international dealings not only in words, but in meaningful action.

Israel has been a long-standing partner in several key sectors of Sri Lanka’s development. One of the most impactful areas is employment: nearly 20,000 Sri Lankans are either working in Israel or are on waiting lists to enter a thriving job market. These sectors include caregiving, agriculture, and construction, where ethical labor conditions and attractive wages between LKR 700,000 and 1 million—are offered. Hostile policies or rhetoric toward Israel risk shutting down one of the most promising overseas employment opportunities for Sri Lankan citizens, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of families.

Tourism is another vital link. Israeli tourists ranging from high-end professionals and academics to budget travelers patronize hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and shops across the country. Negative portrayals and targeted hostility toward these visitors directly impact local businesses in the travel trade, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. A drop in tourism from this group means a loss of revenue, jobs, and investment for Sri Lankans.

Moreover, Israel has made substantial contributions to Sri Lanka’s economy through outsourcing and investment in sectors such as garments and technology, providing jobs to thousands. Their expertise in agriculture, health, and education also offers invaluable development partnerships.

From a geopolitical perspective, Israel has supported Sri Lanka during critical moments, including military cooperation during the 30-year war. Furthermore, characterizing Israel as a colonial or expansionist force is historically inaccurate. Israel is an ancient nation with over 5,000 years of history. It functions as a multi-ethnic, multi-religious democracy the only one of its kind in the Middle East providing equal rights and services to all its citizens, both Jewish and Arab.

Claims that label Israel as a “terrorist” or “occupation” state ignore key facts, such as Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza, which is now governed by Hamas a Palestinian group widely recognized as a terrorist organization.

In summary, rather than allowing biased journalism and misinformed ideology to dictate policy, Sri Lanka must stay true to its non-aligned principles, protect its economic interests, and project a fair and accurate image of its international partners, including Israel