Providing leisure in danger zones

Physical violence, especially war of any kind, does not obviate the need for leisure, rather it enhances it as a relief from stress, whether as a combatant or as a civilian exposed to the effects of combat. Leisure of some kind is also required by peacekeeping forces and aid workers.

Rest and recreation are recognized as necessary for military personnel. Media programmes are made available. Sports are organized. Bar and brothel facilities are commonly organized for military personnel, or their emergence is tacitly accepted as was the case in Saigon during the Viet Nam war.

The living conditions of the inhabitants of combat zones are, in some respects, worse than those of the fighters, who receive priority food, drinks, clothing and fuel. Spontaneous leisure activities are however organized. The conflict in Yugoslavia has attracted efforts by international personalities from the media and the arts to provide leisure experience in the form of concerts and theatre. Children in combat zones play war in imitation of their elders.

Specialized tourism now provides facilities for outsiders to visit war zones, disaster areas and unstable zones such as Anatolia, Kashmir, the Gaza Strip and Northern Ireland.