The security of personnel in the tourism sector, visitors, and the wider island community is critical. As such, synergies between tourism and security must be strengthened through a comprehensive, holistic approach.
This was underscored this morning at the opening of the National Workshop on Tourism Security, being held at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, Hastings, Christ Church, from December 3 to 5.
Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport (Tourism), Deborah Norville, noted that tourism is the “lifeblood of our economy, supporting thousands of livelihoods and sustaining families”.
She emphasised that tourism security is no longer a specialised discipline but a national imperative – one that drives economic resilience and underpins global competitiveness.
“When we protect the tourism industry, we’re not simply safeguarding an economic sector; we are protecting a way of life. In today’s global environment, the phrase ‘tourism security’ demands an expanded and modern understanding. Tourism security refers to the systems, policies, partnerships and protective measures designed to ensure the safety, wellbeing and confidence of all persons participating in or supporting the tourism sector, visitors and workers alike.
“It encompasses physical safety, health security, cyber protection, crisis management, natural disaster response, brand reputation, and the psychological assurance that a destination is trustworthy, stable and well governed. This is particularly important as current global trends show a profound shift in how travellers make decisions,” Ms. Norville stated.
She pointed to metrics from surveys conducted by the World Travel and Tourism Council, TripAdvisor, and Expedia’s 2024 Traveller Insights Report, which consistently identify safety and security as the number one priority for travellers. Health security, community safety and reliable crisis response systems now rank above price, accessibility, climate and even attractions.
In response to these trends, Ms. Norville outlined the Ministry’s holistic approach to strengthening tourism security.
“The Ministry of Tourism continues to strengthen the frameworks that anchor our approach to tourism security. This includes long-standing active collaboration with agencies responsible for border control and immigration, maritime and airspace surveillance, cyber and intelligence monitoring, national emergency response and disaster management, and regional and international security partners. Through this integrated approach, we maintain clear visibility of emerging threats, whether geopolitical tensions, cyber vulnerabilities, climate-related risks or transnational crime,” she explained.
She encouraged participants to engage fully in the workshop so the island can continue strengthening its security systems, deepening preparedness and reinforcing Barbados’ position “as a destination where safety, stability and hospitality remain the hallmarks of our identity”. These efforts, she stressed, are essential to protecting all who live in and visit the island.
Over the three-day workshop, participants will engage in panel discussions, tabletop exercises and presentations on key security topics, including Critical Infrastructure Protection in the Tourism Industry, Public-Private Partnerships for Tourism Security, and Improving Risk Management and Crisis Preparedness in the Tourism Industry.
Author: Sheena Forde-Craigg