Kick-off for ethical cooperation
This year’s TUR will see a new first, a forum for discussions on ethical issues. The forum is being organised by the network Schyst Resande (Responsible Tourism) in cooperation with the School of Business, Economics & Law (University of Gothenburg), Travel News and TUR.
“It’s exceedingly important for the travel industry to contribute to sustainable development in the travel industry. And to contribute to sustainable development in the countries we travel to. Ethics hasn’t been featured at TUR before. But we’re now seeing a lot of interest in tackling these issues,” says Helena Myrman, Project Manager at Schyst Resande.
The purpose of the seminar is to bring together journalists, researchers and people from the travel industry and organisations to discuss, exchange views and learn more about sustainable tourism and CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility). Other items on the agenda will include Decent Working Conditions, Environmental Sustainability and Strengthening Local Economies.
Schyst Resande is a network that highlights the social and economic downsides of travelling. All the organisations in the network are involved in human rights, albeit from different perspectives. A recent survey revealed that, compared to other industries, the travel industry is lagging behind in ethical thinking.
“We see no reason why this should be so. The travel industry is a gigantic industry and it has a big effect on people and places. So it’s high time that we spotlighted these matters,” says Helena Myrman.
Today, there is no common forum for ethics in the travel industry. Per Magnusson, Deputy Exhibition Manager of TUR, suggests that the various sectors have looked at their specific issues, but that cooperation has been lacking.
“This year’s exhibition will be a natural kick-off for jointly highlighting these issues,” he says. The half-day seminar in Göteborg will be attended by people from several fields, including researchers who will provide background and facts. “In addition, several travel trade companies will present their work and their thinking about these matters,” says Helena Myrman. “We hope it will be a great inspirational day for the industry to get started!”