By Suchada Tupchai
The view of the world is changing and it is due to a
great number of circumstances. Whether it’s an act of terrorism, a
natural disaster or otherwise, our increasingly global view ensures that a
major event affects every corner of the planet.
Thailand too has not escaped the problems. However, the
hard work in extinguishing human created fires is just beginning as the
potential disruptions and loss of life seeps into our very being.
This year, the International Institution of Peace
through Tourism has joined forces with the World Travel Organization and
over 40 similar institutions to hold a peace summit here in Pattaya.
The focus of The 3rd International Peace through Tourism
conference was on the numerous global destinations subjected to acts of
terrorism such as 9/11 in the US and last week’s second Bali bombing. The
aim now is to search for ways to promote global peace through the concept
of “One Earth, One Family: Travel & Tourism - Serving a Higher
Purpose”.
Throughout the meeting, delegates stressed the need for
not only containing the problem of terrorism but also preventing the
situation from escalating.
Closer to home, the three troubled Southern provinces
were highlighted and speakers and delegates explored associated issues with
Malaysia and the trickle-down effects on the local economies.
The aim of this part of the conference was to focus on
successfully presenting ideas and solutions to resolve the problems of
Thailand’s South and use the results as a model for promoting unity and
peace through solidarity.
The process is under way but ideology alone will not prevail. Only
through understanding the roots of the problems can they be solved before
we can return to a peaceful existence - providing those involved can put
aside their egos and find common ground where everybody wins and solutions
are agreed upon. Only through mediation and cooperation can this be
achieved.