The local tourism association Svalbard Reiselivsråd has excluded Trust Arcticugol from its members. This was decided today (12 October) during a board meeting.
Trust Arcticugol is a company owned by the Russian state. The Trust owns and runs Barentsburg and all activities there, including tourism.
Trust Arcticugol, here in Pyramiden: excluded from Svalbard Reiselivsråd and Visit Svalbard.
One consequence is that the offerings of Goarctica, the Trust’s daughter company for tourims, are not available anymore on Visit Svalbard, an important booking platform for local tour operators.
The reason is the Russian war of aggression in and against the Ukraine. Chairman Ronny Strømnes pointed out that it was not possible anymore to remain passive, considering the Russian invasion and severe violations of public international law and human rights. Strømnes emphasized that today’s decision is directed against the Russian government and not against the people in Barentsburg. He expressed hope that the future development will make normal relationships possible again, including a renewed membership of Trust Arcticugol in Svalbard Reiselivsråd.
Goarctica, the Trust’s tourism branch, published a video on social media showing how the lights are being turned off in various locations in Barentsburg.