Jamaica Celebrates Landmark Third Global Tourism Resilience Day

Jamaica proudly commemorated the third Global Tourism Resilience Day on 17 February reinforcing the nation’s commitment to sustainability and resilience in the evolving tourism landscape. As a key highlight of the third Global Tourism Resilience Conference, the day emphasised reflection, renewal, and future-proofing the industry against disruptions and shocks.

Held at the Princess Grand in Hanover from 17-19 February, the three-day conference gathered industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability advocates to explore strategies for enhancing tourism resilience. On the final day of the conference, participants were treated to various destination excursions to give them a taste of Jamaica’s tourism offerings at one of the many adventure parks, Jamwest.

Pictured: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett gives the main address at the third Global Tourism Resilience Conference at the Princess Grand Hotel in Hanover on Monday 17 February 2025. 

“As we observe Global Tourism Resilience Day for another year, we are reminded of the importance of raising awareness about building resilience across our sectors and creating spaces for dialogue and transformative action.

Tourism is not merely about leisure or sightseeing. It is the lifeblood of many economies, a catalyst for world development, and a critical pillar in the architecture of global growth. For developing countries in particular, tourism represents a path to empowerment, job creation, poverty alleviation, and the preservation of cultural heritage. It fosters cross-cultural exchange, promotes tolerance, and deepens our shared sense of humanity. We must future-proof it,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett. ​

Under the theme “Building Tourism Resilience through Digital Transformation,” the conference reinforced the importance of sustainable practices in ensuring the industry’s long-term vitality. Through collaborative dialogue and shared best practices, Jamaica reaffirmed its position as a thought leader in global tourism resilience, setting the stage for continued innovation and sustainable growth.

Pictured: (L-R): Natalia Bayona, Executive Director, UN Tourism, Professor Lloyd Waller, Executive Director, Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, David Dobson, Chief Technical Director, Ministry of Tourism, Jennifer Griffith, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Senator Delano Seiveright and Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett at the opening ceremony of the third Global Tourism Resilience Conference at Princess Grand Hotel on 17 February 2025. 

Some of the insightful panel discussions and keynote speeches from renowned experts, included Mr. David Tepper, Co-Founder at Pay-I Inc., and Dr. Luz Longsworth, Sandals International Senior Corporate Director, Sandals Corporate University, who discussed “The Rise of Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges for Tourism.” Participants also shared best practices and discussed actionable solutions to enhance sustainability.

Pictured: A group of participants at the third Global Tourism Resilience Conference enjoying the excursion offerings at Jamwest on Wednesday 19 February 2025

“This conference serves as a pivotal platform to inspire collective action and innovative thinking. As we look towards the future, sustainability must be at the core of tourism development to ensure resilience and growth,” said Professor Lloyd Waller, Executive Director of the Global Tourism Resilience Centre.

The third Global Tourism Resilience Conference and commemoration of Global Tourism Resilience Day, has reaffirmed Jamaica’s thought leadership and the industry’s commitment to sustainability, setting the stage for continued collaboration and innovation. As the global tourism landscape evolves, the conference underscored the importance of resilience and sustainability in shaping the future of travel.

For more information visit www.gtrcmc.org.