#Tourism Can Be Transformative for Peace & #SustainableDevelopment

Photo Credit: mbc.internet.mu

Tourism’s impact is more likely than not underestimated by policy makers and the public. Tourism constitutes 10% of the global GDP and 6% of world trade. It is the better looking part of globalization.
Billion Travelers a Year:

The impact of tourism on peace and even sustainable development may be even more important even though perhaps less subject to tangible measurement. This past weekend, the UN observed  World Tourism Day “One Billion Tourists, One Billion Opportunities.”

“With more than one billion international tourists now traveling the world each year, tourism has become a powerful and transformative force that is making a genuine difference in the lives of millions of people. The potential of tourism for sustainable development is considerable.  As one of the world’s leading employment sectors, tourism provides important livelihood opportunities, helping to alleviate poverty and drive inclusive development.”

Facilitating Positive Encounters:

“As tourism revolves around encounters between different peoples, the sector can foster multicultural understanding and raise awareness on the need to preserve cultural and natural heritage. As the world prepares to adopt a new sustainable development agenda, tourism should be recognized for its ability to create jobs, promote local culture and products and champion the conservation and sustainable use of marine and terrestrial habitats.”

Read more Stories of Compelling Journeys:

Also see: “Could #Tourism Lift #Palestine Economy & Peace?”

 

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Diplomat Artist Buzz
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