Tourism helps dispel false images

Terrorism and dramatic political actions in the world, particularly in the Middle East, have maximised negative stereotypes, false images of others and misunderstandings among a large portion of people worldwide.

Intolerance and cross-cultural tension have indeed grown over the last years. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel; tourism can play a significant role in bridging gaps between nations and contributing to building peace in the world.

Thus, tourism is still a significant means of promoting tolerance, mutual understanding, intercultural dialogue and peace.

Different tourism experiences provide important opportunities to foster the culture of peace at local, regional and global levels. 

Local tourism may help raise the awareness of people in remote areas to certain socio-economic aspects, thus helping promote social justice, development and empowerment.

Intra-regional tourism can enhance relationships, cultural exchanges, acceptance and understanding among peoples in countries within one region.

The flow of international tourists plays a vital role in spreading tolerance and dispelling misunderstanding between tourists and local communities.

Many researchers indicate that tourism creates a sense of togetherness and decreases the perceived differences between host communities and tourists.

Mamoon Allan,
Amman