Tourism is set to contribute $12 trillion to the global economy in 2026, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. That’s nearly 10% of the world’s GDP. But Ambassador Dr. Alain St.Ange of the Seychelles argues that tourism’s true power lies beyond these impressive numbers. He posits that tourism, at its core, is a daily act of human connection, capable of challenging prejudices, supporting peace, and reshaping international relations. Speaking at the Oxford Global Diplomat Summit & Dialogue, St.Ange emphasized that tourism’s impact extends far beyond economic metrics, serving as a bridge between nations and cultures.
Speaking at the Oxford Global Diplomat Summit & Dialogue, St.Ange presented a compelling case for tourism as a form of diplomacy. He believes that tourism supports human connections, challenges prejudices, and strengthens peace between nations. His keynote address, delivered in the presence of the Lord Mayor of Oxford, highlighted the transformative potential of tourism when viewed through the lens of cultural exchange and mutual understanding. St.Ange’s message resonated deeply, as he urged the audience to consider tourism not merely as an economic activity but as a tool for global diplomacy.
Beyond Economic Impact: The Human Side of Tourism
St.Ange emphasized that tourism is about more than just economic growth. It’s about people crossing borders, encountering new cultures, and forming connections. He highlighted the 376 million jobs the sector supports worldwide, each representing a person whose life is touched by tourism. These jobs, he noted, are not just statistics but lifelines for individuals and families, particularly in developing nations. St.Ange also pointed out that tourism’s economic contributions are deeply intertwined with its ability to support personal and cultural connections, making it a unique driver of global unity.
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He challenged the audience to look beyond arrival statistics. “Behind every international arrival,” he said, “is a person crossing a border, a culture being encountered, and a community being seen.” This perspective shifts the focus from quantitative measures to qualitative experiences, emphasizing the human stories behind each tourist visit. St.Ange argued that these encounters can break down stereotypes and build bridges between diverse communities, turning tourism into a powerful force for cultural diplomacy.
For small island nations like the Seychelles, tourism is a lifeline. It accounts for 21% of the country’s GDP and 27% of its employment. St.Ange stressed that the benefits must be shared equitably, with local communities actively involved in the industry. He highlighted the interconnectedness of tourism with other sectors, such as agriculture, fisheries, and entertainment, demonstrating how tourism’s impact ripples through the entire economy. St.Ange emphasized the need for inclusive growth, ensuring that local businesses and young people benefit directly from tourism revenues.
Sustainability: A Prerequisite for Growth
St.Ange rejected the notion that environmental protection and economic growth are mutually exclusive. He cited the World Bank’s warning that the Seychelles’ GDP could shrink by 6% by 2050 without addressing environmental risks. This stark projection shows the urgency of sustainable practices in tourism. St.Ange argued that protecting natural resources is not just an ethical imperative but an economic necessity, as tourism relies on pristine environments to attract visitors.
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He advocated for a tourism model that creates value while minimizing environmental impact. This includes cleaner energy, reduced waste, protected biodiversity, and development within ecological limits. St.Ange stressed the importance of long-term planning, ensuring that tourism development does not compromise the well-being of future generations.
Tourism, he argued, depends on the very resources it can destroy if not managed sustainably. “A coral reef takes generations to develop,” he noted, highlighting the fragility of natural ecosystems and the need for responsible tourism practices. St.Ange called for a paradigm shift in how destinations approach tourism, prioritizing sustainability over short-term gains to ensure the industry’s longevity.
Preserving Cultural Identity in a Globalized World
St.Ange warned against the homogenization of tourist destinations. He believes that the uniqueness of each place is what makes travel valuable. “People do not usually cross oceans to experience exactly what they have at home,” he said. This observation shows the importance of preserving local cultures and traditions in an increasingly globalized world. St.Ange argued that destinations must resist the temptation to replicate generic tourist experiences, instead celebrating their distinct identities.
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He emphasized the importance of community involvement in tourism, ensuring that local cultures are not commodified but celebrated and protected. Tourism, he argued, should empower local communities, not exploit them. St.Ange stressed that communities must be participants, decision-makers, business owners, and beneficiaries in their own tourism industry.
In a world increasingly divided, St.Ange sees tourism as a bridge. It allows people to experience difference, challenge their assumptions, and build understanding. It’s diplomacy without the negotiating table, education without the classroom, and trade with a human face. St.Ange’s vision of tourism as a unifying force was met with applause, as he articulated how travel can transcend political and cultural divides, supporting global solidarity.
St.Ange’s vision is ambitious: a tourism sector that creates prosperity without sacrificing the future, connects economies without erasing cultures, and opens nations to the world while protecting their unique identities. If achieved, tourism becomes a powerful force for global understanding and peace. His call to action resonated with the audience, as he urged stakeholders to reimagine tourism as a catalyst for positive change. By adopting sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural preservation, St.Ange believes the tourism industry can fulfill its potential as a bridge between nations, carrying not just travelers, but understanding, opportunity, and hope.