2021 Easter Island tourism referendum

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A referendum on reopening for tourism was held in Easter Island on 24 October 2021. Despite the importance of tourism to the island's economy, the proposal was rejected by 66% of voters. Voter turnout was around 20%.[1]

Background[]

The island was closed to visitors from 16 March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the closure, there were only eight cases of COVID recorded (and no deaths), with the last case in September 2020.[1]

In October 2021 Ma'u Henu (the organisation responsible for running the island's parks) organised a referendum amongst the indigenous population on whether the island should reopen to tourists in January 2022.[2] Although the vote was consultative, the island authorities stated that they would respect the result.[2]

Results[]

Do you want to open the island to tourists in January?
Choice Votes %
Referendum failed No 649 65.92
Yes 320 34.08
Valid votes 969 99.69
Invalid or blank votes 3 0.31
Total votes 972 100.00
Source: Direct Democracy

References[]

  1. ^ a b Remote Easter Island votes against welcoming back tourists to prevent new Covid outbreak RFI
  2. ^ a b Osterinsel (Rapa Nui, Isla de Pascua), Chile, 24. Oktober 2021 : Neuöffnung für den Tourismus Direct Democracy
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