Are Sherpas used as guides for mountain climbing exploited?

Answer 1

They don't seem to think so. They are sometimes overworked or expected to do more than their agreements/contracts state, but that is usually only done by inexperienced and unprofessional expedition leaders.

For many, this is their profession. They could be Yak herders, or become a monk, or leave their villages for other work. So this is a choice, not something to make a living because it is the only option. Many are highly paid (relatively speaking), especially the leads, route setters, and managers.

Finally, with the exception of Andes mountain natives, few others have the physical attributes to successfully do what Sherpas do. Non-Nepalese do not have the genetic ability to function at that altitude for the durations they do. A Sherpa lives his life at high altitude and when they use oxygen at 8000 meters they are still more effective than most other races. Western climbers know this, and are quite willing to pay the expenses asked by Sherpas in order to make a successful bid.

Answer 2

Well they're living in poor countries. In thier country they usually only choose to go and be a sherpa as a last resort if they need to feed thier kids. And it pays. Also sherpas are treated as local heros in the villages and towns they live in. They probably get a rush out of it.

Answer 3

They aren't really guides...more like hired labor. There are climbing Sherpas, but they tend to haul equipment up to various camps on a climbing route.

I'm note sure they are exploited, but it is the best paying gig around for them. It makes a LOT more money for them and their families than agriculture or other options open to them.

Answer 4

No, and FYI Sherpa reffers to the people of the region and not the job. And it is a great source of income for some villages.