Survival International alerts of growing dangers posed by social media influencers to uncontacted tribes following an incident involving a U.S. tourist arrested on North Sentinel Island.
Influencers Spark Concern Over Uncontacted Tribes After Tourist Arrest
Influencers Spark Concern Over Uncontacted Tribes After Tourist Arrest
Rising social media trends pose a unique threat to uncontacted indigenous peoples, warns Survival International.
Social media influencers are causing alarm for the protection of uncontacted indigenous people, according to Survival International, following the arrest of a U.S. tourist who unlawfully visited North Sentinel Island in the Indian Ocean. Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, 24, reportedly attempted to engage with the isolated Sentinelese tribe, filming his actions and leaving offerings such as a coconut and a can of coke on the shore.
Survival International, an advocacy organization for tribal rights, expressed deep concern at the escalating risks these actions pose, not only to the tourist himself but also to the tribe, whose members are vulnerable to diseases brought by outsiders. The U.S. government has confirmed it is aware of the situation and is closely monitoring developments.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands police chief HGS Dhaliwal stated that Polyakov was apprehended and brought before a local court, where he was remanded for further questioning. He allegedly blew a whistle for about an hour to attract the tribe’s attention before landing illegally for a brief period, during which he filmed and collected samples. An investigation revealed Polyakov had previously attempted similar acts, including a botched attempt using an inflatable kayak.
Survival International emphasized that the Sentinelese people, believed to number around 200, have repeatedly expressed their desire to remain uncontacted, presenting a clear case for the necessity of government protections. Jonathan Mazower, the group's spokesperson, highlighted concerns that the rising culture of social media fascination with uncontacted tribes is fueling reckless endangerment of these communities.
While the UN's Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention mandates the protection of such communities, criticisms have arisen regarding India’s effectiveness in safeguarding against outside encroachments. Historical precedence shows dangers; in 2018, U.S. national John Allen Chau was killed by tribe members after intruding upon their lands. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between curiosity and respect for indigenous sovereignty.
