As global tourism enters 2025, the industry is shifting its focus to the powerful connection between peace and travel. This transformation, highlighted by key initiatives and discussions, aims to redefine how tourism can foster peace, cultural understanding, and sustainable development.
In late 2024, a major dialogue was initiated by an online news portal editor and publisher, bringing together global tourism leaders to explore the role of tourism in promoting peace. Over 20 prominent figures, including ministers, media professionals, interfaith leaders, and academics from regions like the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, shared their insights.
These experts emphasized the unique ability of tourism to bridge cultural divides, create friendships, and build harmony—even in the face of geopolitical tensions and conflicts. The discussions explored how tourism can support peace in various forms, from promoting inner peace to dismantling travel barriers and encouraging interfaith dialogue.
Several examples were highlighted where tourism has played a key role in post-conflict recovery. Countries like Rwanda, Ireland, and those in the Mekong region were mentioned as places where tourism has significantly contributed to healing and rebuilding communities after periods of conflict. These regions serve as proof of tourism’s potential to foster long-term peace and sustainable development.
