Message from the President of the TSTT on the occasion of World Tourism Day

Message from the President of the TSTT on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2023

27-09-23

Dear Friends:

Today, as Chair of the Tourism and Society Think Tank and on behalf of all my colleagues on the Steering Committee, we celebrate World Tourism Day, with the theme chosen by the World Tourism Organisation: 'Tourism and Green Investment'.

This day reminds us of the importance of travel, not only as an avenue for leisure and relaxation, but as a bridge that connects cultures, boosts economies and strengthens mutual understanding between peoples.

Tourism is often seen as simply a recreational activity. However, those of us who are immersed in this world know that it has a profound impact on the economy, on culture, on the environment and, above all, on the interconnection between people.

We at the Tourism and Society Think Tank have understood from the outset that our mission is not only to understand these impacts, but also to actively influence the direction that tourism takes in relation to our society. We seek a balance, where tourism benefits both those who practice it and those who are visited, ensuring that it is a sustainable source of development and mutual enrichment.

Tourism is a profound experience that transforms us. It makes us more aware of the world around us, teaches us to value and respect differences and gives us a broader perspective on life and our existence.

In times where tensions can grow and divisions seem to deepen, every time we travel we are choosing to recognise others, to value the people and culture that welcomes us, to understand and respect each other. We are recognising that, despite our differences, we all belong to this vast and beautiful planet, and we all have something valuable to contribute.

Economically, tourism represents one of the most dynamic and fastest growing sectors in the world. It generates employment, drives local and regional development, and contributes significantly to the GDP of many nations. But beyond the numbers, there is the power of tourism to change lives, whether it is providing livelihoods in remote communities or building bridges of understanding between cultures that would otherwise never have crossed.

I want to emphasise the word "sustainability", an overused term and one that as a goal of our industry must not only be understood in environmental terms, although that is fundamental, but also in cultural and economic terms. We must work to ensure that tourism is not just a source of experiences, but a genuine interaction that leaves a positive legacy for all involved.

Nature, cultures and communities open their doors to us; and it is our duty to ensure that future generations can also enjoy these priceless gifts.

Finally, I would like to invite you all to see tourism as a tool for change. In our hands we have the ability to break down barriers, to change perceptions and to build bridges where once there were walls. In these times of divisions and tensions, tourism can be a balm, a way to remind us that, at our core, we are all human beings with the same aspirations, dreams and yearnings.

At the Tourism and Society Think Tank, we will continue to research, reflect and propose policies and practices that ensure that tourism is, now and always, a force for good. And we wish you all:

Happy World Tourism Day!

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