In our column “MONGOLIA THROUGH FOREIGN EYES,” we asked visiting tourists to share their impressions of Mongolia.
“I THOUGHT MONGOLIA WOULD BE A BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY”
Tourist of the People’s Republic of China:
– Could you share your impression of Mongolia?
– Before coming to Mongolia, I thought it would be a very beautiful country. But when I arrived, it didn’t quite match my expectations — it felt a bit poorer and more underdeveloped than I had imagined. However, what really caught my attention is the relationship between China and Mongolia. Mongolia used to be a very powerful nation — I know that. Especially during the Yuan Dynasty, its territory was vast. So nowadays, I’m curious about how Mongolians view China and how they relate to us. In many ways, Mongolia is less developed than China, but it feels like people here enjoy more freedom. I’m just not sure whether Mongolians have the courage to speak the truth openly.
– In this square, people are currently protesting to express their opinions. How do people in your country express their views?
– China’s economy and people’s lives are doing well, but when it comes to politics, you can’t really speak the truth. If you do, it’s hard to survive in China. That’s why I wonder whether Mongolians have the courage to speak out — it’s a real question for me.
"RIGHT-HAND TRAFFIC, BUT RIGHT-HAND DRIVE – THAT STOOD OUT TO ME”
Claudio Bearzatto, tourist of Italy:
– What was your first impression of Mongolia?
– The first thing I noticed was that Mongolia follows right-hand traffic rules but most of the cars have right-hand steering wheels. Normally, with such cars, you'd drive on the left side of the road. That was my very first impression. After traveling to the countryside and returning to the city, I got a better sense of Ulaanbaatar and what the city is like.
– How long will you stay in Mongolia?
– Tomorrow morning, I’m heading to the countryside. I’ll be working with a research team, along with another Italian, studying wildlife — especially the species you call "manul" (Pallas’s cat). The team is part of the “Wildlife Initiative,” and we aim to study and help protect these animals.
– How do people in your country respond to political injustice? Do they protest or take other actions?
– In Italy, people often gather in public squares and try to bring about change. They also collaborate with organizations called “Sindacato” — I’m not sure what the exact English translation is (probably referring to labor unions). Their goal is to improve citizens’ lives and protect their freedoms. Overall, we live freely in Italy, but if there’s an issue, people come out to the public squares and voice their discontent.
"WE ALSO PARTICIPATE PROTEST, AND TRY TO MAKE OUR VOICES HEARD”
Zhouie Murray, tourist of the United States of America:
– Please introduce yourself.
– I’m from Florida, USA. Your country is truly beautiful. Where I live is very flat and below sea level, so I’m really enjoying the mountains and nature here — it’s absolutely amazing. I’m excited to see more of what Mongolia has to offer.
– What’s next on your travel itinerary?
– My sister is arriving from Seoul today. We plan to travel through the Gobi provinces, visit the Chinggis Khan statue, and go horseback riding in the countryside. I’ve always wanted to come to Mongolia — it’s such a stunning country with a fascinating history. Not many Americans travel here, but I think more people should. I’m really looking forward to discovering what Mongolia has to show me.
– In the past week, young people in Mongolia have been protesting against the government. How do citizens in the U.S. respond to political injustice?
– We do the same. We organize protests, sometimes small gatherings or events to meet with politicians. Young people, in particular, are very active in today's political climate. As for our president — opinions vary. Personally, I don’t support him. *\[laughs]* So we protest against unjust laws, especially anti-immigration policies.
We hold marches, demonstrate outside courthouses, and participate in hearings to protect people’s rights. Many of us feel like we’re losing what we’ve worked hard for under the current administration. That’s why we protest and raise our voices.
– Have you personally joined any protests?
– Yes, I have. For example, a law was passed in the U.S. that essentially rendered the Fourth Amendment powerless, and many women felt like they lost their reproductive rights. I also participated in the “Black Lives Matter” movement and joined rallies against racial injustice. Outside of work, I’ve attended several such protests. Immigration policy is also a serious concern — especially the attempt to deport people of color unlawfully — so I’ve protested against that too.
– What results came out of those protests?
– We’re still fighting for immigration reform and justice — it’s a major issue in the U.S. However, in the case of “Black Lives Matter,” a law was passed to prohibit hate crimes based on race. It’s called the “Stop Asian Hate” law, but it applies to all people of color who face discrimination and hate crimes.
“OUR COUNTRY’S HISTORY OF WAR AND UNITY MAKES OUR PEOPLE ACTIVE IN PROTESTS”
Jeon Hyemin, tourist of South Korea:
– What’s your impression of Mongolia?
– This is my first time in Mongolia. We went straight to Terelj, where I saw the nomadic lifestyle and livestock — it was very different from home. But today, after exploring Ulaanbaatar and seeing the youth, I feel that Mongolia is a democratic country with great potential, even more so than my own country in some ways.
– How do South Koreans express political discontent?
– In 2016, Korean youth united and held massive protests in Gwanghwamun Square to demand the resignation of the president at that time. Back then, everyone joined in with one voice. This time, although we also protested against the current president, the public was more divided — some supported him, others didn’t, so there were more mixed opinions.
– Which side were you on? Did you support the president’s impeachment?
– Personally, I wasn’t 100% in favor, but I leaned toward supporting the impeachment.
– South Koreans seem very active in protests. Why do you think that is?
– I believe there are both good and bad sides to this. On the positive side, our country has a long history of war and unity, so people believe in actively participating in protests and raising their voices together. However, I think the downside is that sometimes people focus too much on one perspective and fail to consider others, just following the flow.
“I PROTESTED AGAINST CORRUPTION AND INJUSTICE OVER 10 YEARS AGO”
Argentinian tourist Ezequiel Lopez:
- Hello, my name is Ezequiel Lopez. I’m a citizen of Argentina. I arrived in Mongolia two days ago. I traveled by train from Beijing, China to Ulaanbaatar. Since arriving, I’ve explored the capital and visited some monasteries. In the next three days, I plan to visit the Terelj and Khustai National Parks. I’ve always been interested in Mongolian history and culture. I’m currently traveling through Mongolia, China, Kazakhstan, and Eastern Europe.
- Do citizens in Argentina protest against political injustice?
- Absolutely. Political movements and social issues are quite complex in Argentina right now. People usually express their discontent through street protests. It doesn’t always involve violence. Sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn’t. But mostly, people go out with pamphlets and slogans, aiming to make their voices heard by politicians and government officials. Protesting is how they express themselves.
- Have you ever taken part in a protest?
- Yes. I participated in a protest against economic issues, corruption, and injustice in society. It happened over 10–15 years ago. The economic situation was extremely difficult at that time—high inflation and widespread poverty. That’s why people had to take to the streets to make the government hear them.
- Were there any positive outcomes from that protest?
- It was powerful to see everyone take to the streets. It was just after an economic crisis. Sometimes protests don’t lead to immediate results, but they’re still an important way to express dissent and share opinions.
“A NATION THAT TAKES PRIDE IN ITS STRONG CULTURE AND VALUES”
Australian citizen Irene Holub:
- Can you share your first impressions of Mongolia?
- This is my first time in Mongolia. I came at the invitation of Australian volunteers to work in the field of education for children with hearing impairments. My first impression is that Ulaanbaatar is a beautiful city—amazing. I also feel that Mongolia is home to a proud people who honor their strong culture and values.
- How do people in Australia respond to injustice? Do they protest or express dissent?
- I’m here representing a group of Australian volunteers, so I’m not in a position to officially comment on such matters. If I were here individually, I would freely share my personal opinion. But given the current context, I’m afraid I cannot speak in detail about this—sorry.
“I’VE DREAMED OF COMING TO MONGOLIA FOR 40 YEARS”
French tourists Elise Zussy and Christian Zussy:
- We just arrived in Mongolia today. My father and I plan to go on a hiking trip, get to know the nomadic lifestyle, explore the city, and learn about another culture. /Father Christian Zussy/ I’ve dreamed of coming to Mongolia for over 40 years.
- When people in your country unite and protest, does it usually lead to concrete results?
- Protests happen when citizens disagree with political decisions. However, politicians often stand firmly by their decisions, so not all protests lead to outcomes.
In our column “MONGOLIA THROUGH FOREIGN EYES,” we asked visiting tourists to share their impressions of Mongolia.
“I THOUGHT MONGOLIA WOULD BE A BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY”
Tourist of the People’s Republic of China:
– Could you share your impression of Mongolia?
– Before coming to Mongolia, I thought it would be a very beautiful country. But when I arrived, it didn’t quite match my expectations — it felt a bit poorer and more underdeveloped than I had imagined. However, what really caught my attention is the relationship between China and Mongolia. Mongolia used to be a very powerful nation — I know that. Especially during the Yuan Dynasty, its territory was vast. So nowadays, I’m curious about how Mongolians view China and how they relate to us. In many ways, Mongolia is less developed than China, but it feels like people here enjoy more freedom. I’m just not sure whether Mongolians have the courage to speak the truth openly.
– In this square, people are currently protesting to express their opinions. How do people in your country express their views?
– China’s economy and people’s lives are doing well, but when it comes to politics, you can’t really speak the truth. If you do, it’s hard to survive in China. That’s why I wonder whether Mongolians have the courage to speak out — it’s a real question for me.
"RIGHT-HAND TRAFFIC, BUT RIGHT-HAND DRIVE – THAT STOOD OUT TO ME”
Claudio Bearzatto, tourist of Italy:
– What was your first impression of Mongolia?
– The first thing I noticed was that Mongolia follows right-hand traffic rules but most of the cars have right-hand steering wheels. Normally, with such cars, you'd drive on the left side of the road. That was my very first impression. After traveling to the countryside and returning to the city, I got a better sense of Ulaanbaatar and what the city is like.
– How long will you stay in Mongolia?
– Tomorrow morning, I’m heading to the countryside. I’ll be working with a research team, along with another Italian, studying wildlife — especially the species you call "manul" (Pallas’s cat). The team is part of the “Wildlife Initiative,” and we aim to study and help protect these animals.
– How do people in your country respond to political injustice? Do they protest or take other actions?
– In Italy, people often gather in public squares and try to bring about change. They also collaborate with organizations called “Sindacato” — I’m not sure what the exact English translation is (probably referring to labor unions). Their goal is to improve citizens’ lives and protect their freedoms. Overall, we live freely in Italy, but if there’s an issue, people come out to the public squares and voice their discontent.
"WE ALSO PARTICIPATE PROTEST, AND TRY TO MAKE OUR VOICES HEARD”
Zhouie Murray, tourist of the United States of America:
– Please introduce yourself.
– I’m from Florida, USA. Your country is truly beautiful. Where I live is very flat and below sea level, so I’m really enjoying the mountains and nature here — it’s absolutely amazing. I’m excited to see more of what Mongolia has to offer.
– What’s next on your travel itinerary?
– My sister is arriving from Seoul today. We plan to travel through the Gobi provinces, visit the Chinggis Khan statue, and go horseback riding in the countryside. I’ve always wanted to come to Mongolia — it’s such a stunning country with a fascinating history. Not many Americans travel here, but I think more people should. I’m really looking forward to discovering what Mongolia has to show me.
– In the past week, young people in Mongolia have been protesting against the government. How do citizens in the U.S. respond to political injustice?
– We do the same. We organize protests, sometimes small gatherings or events to meet with politicians. Young people, in particular, are very active in today's political climate. As for our president — opinions vary. Personally, I don’t support him. *\[laughs]* So we protest against unjust laws, especially anti-immigration policies.
We hold marches, demonstrate outside courthouses, and participate in hearings to protect people’s rights. Many of us feel like we’re losing what we’ve worked hard for under the current administration. That’s why we protest and raise our voices.
– Have you personally joined any protests?
– Yes, I have. For example, a law was passed in the U.S. that essentially rendered the Fourth Amendment powerless, and many women felt like they lost their reproductive rights. I also participated in the “Black Lives Matter” movement and joined rallies against racial injustice. Outside of work, I’ve attended several such protests. Immigration policy is also a serious concern — especially the attempt to deport people of color unlawfully — so I’ve protested against that too.
– What results came out of those protests?
– We’re still fighting for immigration reform and justice — it’s a major issue in the U.S. However, in the case of “Black Lives Matter,” a law was passed to prohibit hate crimes based on race. It’s called the “Stop Asian Hate” law, but it applies to all people of color who face discrimination and hate crimes.
“OUR COUNTRY’S HISTORY OF WAR AND UNITY MAKES OUR PEOPLE ACTIVE IN PROTESTS”
Jeon Hyemin, tourist of South Korea:
– What’s your impression of Mongolia?
– This is my first time in Mongolia. We went straight to Terelj, where I saw the nomadic lifestyle and livestock — it was very different from home. But today, after exploring Ulaanbaatar and seeing the youth, I feel that Mongolia is a democratic country with great potential, even more so than my own country in some ways.
– How do South Koreans express political discontent?
– In 2016, Korean youth united and held massive protests in Gwanghwamun Square to demand the resignation of the president at that time. Back then, everyone joined in with one voice. This time, although we also protested against the current president, the public was more divided — some supported him, others didn’t, so there were more mixed opinions.
– Which side were you on? Did you support the president’s impeachment?
– Personally, I wasn’t 100% in favor, but I leaned toward supporting the impeachment.
– South Koreans seem very active in protests. Why do you think that is?
– I believe there are both good and bad sides to this. On the positive side, our country has a long history of war and unity, so people believe in actively participating in protests and raising their voices together. However, I think the downside is that sometimes people focus too much on one perspective and fail to consider others, just following the flow.
“I PROTESTED AGAINST CORRUPTION AND INJUSTICE OVER 10 YEARS AGO”
Argentinian tourist Ezequiel Lopez:
- Hello, my name is Ezequiel Lopez. I’m a citizen of Argentina. I arrived in Mongolia two days ago. I traveled by train from Beijing, China to Ulaanbaatar. Since arriving, I’ve explored the capital and visited some monasteries. In the next three days, I plan to visit the Terelj and Khustai National Parks. I’ve always been interested in Mongolian history and culture. I’m currently traveling through Mongolia, China, Kazakhstan, and Eastern Europe.
- Do citizens in Argentina protest against political injustice?
- Absolutely. Political movements and social issues are quite complex in Argentina right now. People usually express their discontent through street protests. It doesn’t always involve violence. Sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn’t. But mostly, people go out with pamphlets and slogans, aiming to make their voices heard by politicians and government officials. Protesting is how they express themselves.
- Have you ever taken part in a protest?
- Yes. I participated in a protest against economic issues, corruption, and injustice in society. It happened over 10–15 years ago. The economic situation was extremely difficult at that time—high inflation and widespread poverty. That’s why people had to take to the streets to make the government hear them.
- Were there any positive outcomes from that protest?
- It was powerful to see everyone take to the streets. It was just after an economic crisis. Sometimes protests don’t lead to immediate results, but they’re still an important way to express dissent and share opinions.
“A NATION THAT TAKES PRIDE IN ITS STRONG CULTURE AND VALUES”
Australian citizen Irene Holub:
- Can you share your first impressions of Mongolia?
- This is my first time in Mongolia. I came at the invitation of Australian volunteers to work in the field of education for children with hearing impairments. My first impression is that Ulaanbaatar is a beautiful city—amazing. I also feel that Mongolia is home to a proud people who honor their strong culture and values.
- How do people in Australia respond to injustice? Do they protest or express dissent?
- I’m here representing a group of Australian volunteers, so I’m not in a position to officially comment on such matters. If I were here individually, I would freely share my personal opinion. But given the current context, I’m afraid I cannot speak in detail about this—sorry.
“I’VE DREAMED OF COMING TO MONGOLIA FOR 40 YEARS”
French tourists Elise Zussy and Christian Zussy:
- We just arrived in Mongolia today. My father and I plan to go on a hiking trip, get to know the nomadic lifestyle, explore the city, and learn about another culture. /Father Christian Zussy/ I’ve dreamed of coming to Mongolia for over 40 years.
- When people in your country unite and protest, does it usually lead to concrete results?
- Protests happen when citizens disagree with political decisions. However, politicians often stand firmly by their decisions, so not all protests lead to outcomes.