The Washington Post published an article "Russia backs resorts to stem terrorism".
After years of trying to suppress religious and ethnic tensions in its south-western mountains with guns and troops, Russia is offering new incentives to combat unrest and terrorism: resorts, ski slopes and sandy beaches.
"The idea is to bring jobs and prospects to the people of the North Caucasus, where Islamic fundamentalism and separatist aspirations have resulted in death and violence in the region’s mountains and a thousand miles away in Moscow, the target of suicide bomber attacks," the author of the article Kathy Lally explains.
Admitting the beauty of the Caucasian landscapes and the necessity of the economic development for long-term peace, the author is concerned about the safety of the tourists: "Will tourists feel safe? So far this year, 574 violent deaths have been reported in the North Caucasus. Last year, terrorists killed three Russian tourists near Mount Elbrus, at 18,510 feet Europe’s tallest mountain, where a small ski area has operated for years."
Much of the answer, according to the author, depends on the success of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. "Russian leaders, from Vladimir Putin on down, support increased tourism and have allotted the government-sponsored Northern Caucasus Resorts $2 billion to begin development and seek investors. Foreign experts have been brought in to help, including Gernot Leitner, an energetic Austrian architect, skier and sports professional." Despite the current serious problems with infrastructure, Leitner feels positive about the project.
“It’s going to be nice. I believe in it,” the author cites her words.
