We celebrate World Tourism Day 2024 with the theme “Peace”

Prof. Dr. Hale Özgit, Director of the School of Tourism and Hotel Management of Cyprus International University (CIU) stated that September 27 World Tourism Day will be celebrated with the theme ‘Tourism and Peace’ this year, and said, “Tourism has a vital role as a catalyst in promoting peace and understanding between nations and cultures as well as supporting reconciliation processes.”

Özgit pointed out the sustainable development goals of tourism and said, “Quality improvement in tourism education will be possible by  investing in education and skills which will contribute to sustainable infrastructure investments, decarbonizing the sector and encouraging climate-resilient infrastructure, accelerating the green transformation and investing in innovative technology that can develop the workforce in tourism.”
 
Stating that the tourism industry provides a fertile ground for innovation and entrepreneurship, Özgit shared the information, “By encouraging creative solutions and new business models, tourism can stimulate economic growth and provide unique opportunities for young talents.”

Özgit also stated that by supporting entrepreneurship in tourism, it will be possible to pave the way to sustainable development, and programs  can also be created for innovative peacebuilding strategies.

Özgit said that in addition to being an economic powerhouse, tourism’s greatest strength is that it brings people together in conflict-free conditions, and added “A tourism that is sensitive to peace is aware of economic and social forces and therefore social responsibility. It aims to contribute within the scope of opportunities.”

Reminding that the future of tourism is in the hands of young people, Özgit said, “By investing in young people, providing them with education and training opportunities, and encouraging their active participation in the tourism sector, we can use their potential to drive social change and promote peace. Young talents bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and energy that are necessary for the continued evolution of tourism as a force for good.”

To conclude, Dr. Özgit talked about what needs to be done in the field of tourism, and noted that it is important to determine policies for a peaceful and sustainable tourism model that can provide everyone with equal opportunities to travel and experience what the world has to offer.