The Nexus between Tourism, Peace & Sustainability: Forging a Path to a Better Future
ASU’s Center for Sustainable Tourism hosted the inaugural webinar in its Tourism Dialogue Series in celebration of the United Nations Tourism's World Tourism Day on Sept. 27.
The Nexus between Tourism, Peace & Sustainability: Forging a Path to a Better Future brought together a panel comprising two ASU faculty members, Dr. Dallen Timothy and Dr. Gyan Nyaupane, and Dr. Anna Farmaki from the Cyprus University of Technology. Dr. Chistine Buzinde, professor and director of the School of Community Resources and Development, moderated the webinar. The webinar drew over 150 registrants from more than 15 countries and explored a holistic approach to understanding peace and tourism’s role in promoting it.
Discussions were formed around the exploration of why the nexus between peace, tourism and sustainability is relevant in our current global climate, key contributions being made by tourism scholars, the role of tourism stakeholders, potential angles of future research, and ways in which global citizens and tourists play a role in peacebuilding.
“Sustainable tourism can transform communities – creating jobs, fostering inclusion and strengthening local economies. By valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, it can help reduce tensions and nurture peaceful coexistence. Tourism can also promote economic interdependence between neighbors, encouraging cooperation and peaceful development. At the same time, tourism broadens horizons. Every traveler can be an ambassador, engaging respectfully with local populations, recognizing our diversity and shared humanity, and the values that unite us all. As we celebrate tourism, let us travel responsibly, build bridges, and promote mutual respect among cultures and nations. Together, we can harness the power of tourism to advance peace and prosperity for all.” - Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary General, from his message for World Tourism Day 2024
View the full webinar here.