According to Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Dr. Bartlett, who told eTurboNews after he arrived in Georgia for World Tourism Day, peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of connections.
Last year, 1.4 billion tourists traveled the world and made 1.4 billion connections, creating better human understanding and peace.
Today, Bartlett launched his new book, “Decoding The Future of Tourism, ” in Georgia. Professor Lloyd Waller co-authored it, which was also co-signed by UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikasvilli.
A proud Jamaica Minister Bartlett presented this book to Pololikasvilli in Tbilisi, Georgia, today during the celebration of World Tourism Day 2024 (WTD2024)
The launch followed an inspirational address by the Minister and the singing of Bob Marley’s world-acclaimed “One Love,” the Song of the Century!
The Hon. Minister of Tourism for Jamaica, Dr. Edmund Bartlett, said in Georgia.
Distinguished delegates, esteemed colleagues, ladies and gentlemen,
It is an honor to address you today on World Tourism Day here in the beautiful country of Georgia. As we gather under the theme “Building Tourism Resilience for World Peace,” we are reminded of the profound role that tourism plays not just in economies but in the very fabric of global harmony.
Tourism is more than an industry; it is a bridge between cultures, a catalyst for understanding, and a beacon of hope in a fragmented world.
Through the simple act of visiting another land, tasting its food, listening to its music, and walking its streets, we begin to see beyond borders and embrace the rich tapestry of human diversity.
One Love – One Heart
Bob Marley once sang, “One love, one heart… Let’s get together and feel all right.”
These words resonate deeply with our mission today. Tourism embodies this spirit of unity. It allows us to break down the barriers of territory and nationalism, reminding us that, despite our differences, we are one people sharing one planet.
The Power of Tourism in Uniting People
In 2022, international tourist arrivals reached 1.4 billion worldwide, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This is not just a statistic; it’s 1.4 billion opportunities for cultural exchange, for peace-building, and for fostering mutual respect.
Each traveler becomes an ambassador of goodwill, carrying with them not just their luggage but their stories, traditions, and openness to learn.
Consider the case of Rwanda, a nation once scarred by division and conflict. Through focused efforts on sustainable tourism, particularly gorilla trekking experiences, Rwanda has boosted its economy and promoted reconciliation and peace among its people. Tourists visiting Rwanda contribute to conservation efforts and community development, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the country.
Building Tourism Resilience
However, the path is not without challenges. The global pandemic showed us how vulnerable the tourism sector can be. It underscored the need for resilience—to build systems that can withstand shocks and promote peace and understanding even in the face of adversity.
The UNWTO has been instrumental in this regard, spearheading initiatives that promote sustainable and responsible tourism. Their work ensures that tourism development is inclusive, benefits local communities, and preserves cultural heritage.
The Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) has also been leading the way, supporting destinations in managing crises and regaining their strength.
The Sustainable Tourism Global Center has been launched in the Middle East to drive sustainable practices across the industry. Their focus on environmental stewardship and social responsibility sets a benchmark for how tourism can contribute to peace by promoting equitable growth and preserving the very environments that attract visitors.
Organizations like the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) also play pivotal roles. They bring together leaders from across the industry to collaborate on best practices, advocate for policies that support tourism resilience, and highlight the sector’s contributions to global peace and prosperity.
The Need for Greater Institutional Support
Yet, we must acknowledge that more needs to be done. It is imperative that additional institutions recognize and harness tourism’s power as a force for peace. Governments, NGOs, and the private sector must invest in infrastructure, education, and policies that support sustainable tourism development.
For example, community-based tourism initiatives can empower local populations, giving them a stake in preserving their culture and environment. This enhances the visitor experience, promotes social cohesion, and reduces the likelihood of conflict.
A Call to Action
Today, I propose the establishment of an international fund dedicated to building tourism resilience in regions vulnerable to conflict and natural disasters. This fund would support projects that promote peace through tourism, foster cultural understanding, and build the capacity of local communities to manage and benefit from tourism sustainably.
Let us make this initiative the cornerstone of our commitment to leveraging tourism as a pathway to peace. By pooling resources and expertise, we can create a safety net that protects destinations and ensures that tourism remains a viable tool for peace-building even in the toughest times.
Conclusion
In closing, I return to Bob Marley’s wisdom: “One love, one heart.”
Let us embrace this ethos, recognizing that every journey is a step towards a more peaceful world. Tourism has the unique ability to touch hearts and open minds. It teaches us that while we may come from different places, speak different languages, and hold different beliefs, we all share the same dreams of happiness, prosperity, and peace.
The world needs to recognize the indispensable role of travel and tourism in fostering global peace. By building tourism resilience, we are not just protecting an industry but safeguarding a conduit for understanding, empathy, and unity.
Let us commit today to working together—governments, international organizations, the private sector, and communities—to strengthen tourism’s capacity to withstand threats and continue its vital role in promoting world peace.
