PEACE THROUGH TOURISM

Tourism has had a far reaching, positive, impact on tourism in Northern Ireland – and indeed the whole of Ireland – post the Good Friday Agreement of 10TH April 1998 and is now making a significant contribution to sustainable social, economic and environmental development.

In the words of Niall Gibbons (the outgoing CEO of Tourism Ireland www.tourismireland.com),  “Tourism brings peace and peace brings tourism.”

On the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement (GFA – www.gov.uk) peace accord, Fáilte Feirste Thiar (FFT - Visit West Belfast www.visitwestbelfast.com)  and Féile an Phobail (Festival of the People, now in its 35th year www.feilebelfast.com)  will host a ground-breaking, flagship, international event to explore the growth, success and remaining challenges facing the tourism industry.

The Good Friday Agreement sought to develop cross border partnerships, a renewed commitment to human rights and a shared commitment to enhancing the well-being of all citizens. The event being organised for April will reflect on these ambitions through the lens of tourism.

We will hear the stories of inspirational people who have reimagined and changed the perception their destinations by creating extraordinary experiences for visitor and their residents by exploring different aspects of the shift from conflict to peace.

join us in Belfast on 6th April 2023 for a day conference (free of charge) with global speakers to explore this topic.