THE RESILIENCE OF TOURISM: INSIGHTS FROM THE PACIFIC TOURISM ORGANISATION

Tourism is a resilient sector that can bounce back quickly after pandemics or natural disasters. Christopher Cocker, Chief Executive Officer of the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), highlighted this during his keynote speech on “Regional Sustainable Tourism Policy and Beyond.” He presented the current status of sustainable tourism and participated in a panel discussion on community tourism.

The SPTO was invited and funded by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) to participate in the Pacific Island Nations Week in Tokyo, Japan. This weeklong seminar series explored various topics, including security, sustainable tourism, protection of traditional cultures, disaster management, public health, and the impact of sea-level rise.

Mr. Cocker provided updates on SPTO’s post-pandemic efforts and future recovery plans. He emphasized the importance of responsible recovery and prioritizing people and the planet.

“For SPTO, any regional work we do must have in-country solutions. Global and regional cooperation is also vital. There must be an integrated approach. SPTO and our members are committed to measuring sustainability by looking at economic, social, cultural, and environmental impacts,” he stated.

Regional leadership, digital transformation, and sustainable financing from donors and development partners are essential for SPTO. Mr. Cocker’s presence at the SPF event highlighted the need for a formal partnership between SPF and SPTO to replicate community tourism projects.

During his mission to the SPF Pacific Island Nations Week, Mr. Cocker moderated a session on Economic Development/Air Route Expansion, addressing issues such as accessibility and partnerships. This collaboration presents an opportunity for SPTO and Palau to work with Japan Airlines (JAL) on Pacific sustainable initiatives as part of JAL’s corporate responsibility activities.

Mr. Cocker also discussed with Palau’s Tourism Minister Ngirabelas Tmetuchl and Palau Visitor’s Authority (PVA) Managing Director Kadoi Ruluked on SPTO membership. Discussions were fruitful and are ongoing.

SPF’s Pacific Week focused on Palau, highlighting effective community tourism initiatives and potential collaboration between SPTO, Palau, and SPF. SPTO member countries can learn a lot from Palau and replicate these efforts.

The Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF), established in 1986, is dedicated to advancing international exchange and cooperation and strengthening ties between Japan and other countries. As an independent private foundation, SPF promotes various programs and projects to address natural disasters and social crises and seek new governance models for society. SPF’s Pacific Island Nations Program, launched in 1989, builds mutual trust and promotes peace and prosperity between Japan and Pacific Island nations through targeted research and localized projects.