Is Travel to the USA Now an Ethical Dilemma Amid Political Turmoil?
In recent months, the United States has become a focal point for global travellers grappling with difficult questions about ethics and safety. With former President Donald Trump sharing controversial memes, reports of masked ICE agents confronting civilians, and even American athletes expressing mixed emotions about representing their nation, many are wondering if the America they once admired still exists. Travel writer Anna Hart, whose sister resides in California, delves into the complexities of visiting the US during these turbulent times.
Growing Reluctance Among Travellers
A recent survey conducted by Simon Calder for The Independent reveals a significant shift in public sentiment. Approximately 80 percent of respondents indicated they plan to avoid travelling to the United States, while only 11 percent remain committed to their plans. Among those with pre-booked holidays, one in seven are actively considering cancellations. This trend underscores a broader unease, as the Trump administration has been accused of transforming the country into an unwelcoming and potentially hazardous destination.
Personal and Professional Perspectives
For Hart, the decision to continue visiting the US is deeply personal, driven by family ties in California. She emphasises that many Americans in the travel, hospitality, and arts sectors are actively resisting the current political climate, striving to create safe and inclusive environments for visitors. Drawing from her upbringing in Belfast during the 1980s and 1990s—a period when tourism dwindled due to conflict—Hart believes that responsible travel can foster positive change and amplify marginalised voices.
However, she fully supports those who choose to boycott the country. There is a growing movement advocating for an international boycott of the US, citing violations of international law. Comparisons have been drawn to the US-led boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics, with calls to avoid the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which the US is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada. French MP Eric Coquerel of the La France Insoumise party has questioned the morality of holding such events in a nation accused of aggressive foreign policies and internal repression.
Safety and Immigration Concerns
Safety remains a paramount concern for prospective travellers. Hart acknowledges her privileged position as a white Irish citizen, noting that Black and minority ethnic individuals often face heightened risks, particularly from law enforcement. Disturbing incidents, such as the deaths of protesters Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE agents in Minneapolis, have fueled fears. Over the past year, more than 40 people have been killed by federal agents or died in custody, raising alarms about escalating violence.
Immigration procedures add another layer of anxiety. New proposed requirements for the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (Esta) demand extensive personal data, including social media identifiers from the past five years, phone numbers, email addresses, IP addresses, and family details. This invasive process has led the World Travel and Tourism Council to predict a 23.7 percent drop in arrivals from Esta countries in 2026, potentially costing the US economy billions in lost tourism revenue.
Financial and Legal Implications
Travellers must also consider practical ramifications. According to Sean Tipton of Abta, standard travel insurance does not cover trips taken against Foreign Office advice, which currently does not restrict travel to the US. This leaves holidaymakers vulnerable if they encounter difficulties. The risks are compounded by the potential for political instability, making many hesitant to proceed with their plans.
A Complex Decision for Tourists
Despite these challenges, the US remains a popular destination, ranking as the third most-visited country globally after France and Spain. Landmarks like the revamped Motown Museum in Detroit, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles, and the Obama Presidential Centre in Chicago offer cultural attractions, while events like the 250th anniversary of American independence and the World Cup promise economic boosts. Hart encourages responsible tourism, suggesting that visitors can support local businesses and community groups aligned with progressive values.
Ultimately, the choice to travel to the United States is fraught with ethical and practical considerations. While there are compelling reasons to visit—from personal connections to cultural experiences—the political climate has made it impossible to ignore the underlying tensions. As Hart concludes, travellers can no longer pretend that conditions are normal, and must weigh their decisions carefully in light of the current realities.
