Event Industry as a Force for Promoting World Peace
Recent tragic events around the world, such as the conflict in Israel and the war in Ukraine, have forced me to reflect on the role and potential of the event industry in promoting peace and conflict resolution on a global scale. In the face of these events, our voice becomes a tool to create a better future and influence society in a positive way.
The concept of peace often seems distant and abstract, but it becomes real when we realize that it is formed in our daily human interactions, minute by minute. It is in the business, sports and cultural events that take place every day that the great power to influence the peace-building process lies. The events industry not only organizes events, but also builds relationships, creates communities, promotes inclusion and understanding, and therefore has the potential to use its voice to create sustainable events and ultimately world peace.
Here are some practical examples of how we can use our position in the event industry to promote peace:
Promoting intercultural dialogue: Creating platforms where representatives of different cultures and faiths can meet, share their experiences and have open conversations which is a key aspect of building understanding and agreement.
Education for peace: Organizing workshops and trainings that help participants understand the nature of conflicts and methods of conflict resolution and this is part of building the skills necessary to create a more peaceful world.
Social campaigns and activism: Using one's position and communication skills to promote social campaigns for peace and support NGOs working for conflict resolution.
Working with the media and civil society: Work with the media to promote information about conflicts, their causes and possible solutions, and support civil society activities involved in peace processes.
International engagement: Working with international organizations, such as the UN, ICCA and MPI, to promote conflict solutions and work for peace on a global scale.
Use of technology: Using modern technology such as online platforms to organize events and promote peace messages which enables us to reach a wider audience and shape opinions on peace.
Our role as event professionals is to use our voice, contacts and skills to promote peace, dialogue and understanding between different groups in society. Through organizing events and social activism, we can contribute to creating a more peaceful and harmonious world. Our voice matters, and the events industry can become a driving force in building peace in the world.
Author: Anna Gorska, Advisor to the Board of Symposium Cracoviense, ICCA Board Member, Vice President of the Board of SKKP