Third Caucasus Mountain Forum paves the way for sustainable tourism in the Caucasus
10.07.2023
"Tourism can play a key role in valuing and protecting the natural and spiritual heritage of mountains, and the cultural diversity and traditional practices of mountain peoples," stated Rosalaura Romeo, Coordinator of the Mountain Partnership Secretariat, setting the tone for the Third Caucasus Mountain Forum (CMF3) held in Kutaisi, Georgia, from 4 – 6 July 2023 at Akaki Tsereteli State University.
Organized by the Scientific Network for the Caucasus Mountain Regions (SNC-mt) and its coordination unit, Caucasus Network for Sustainable Development of Mountain Regions (Sustainable Caucasus), the event focused on the theme "Transdisciplinarity for Sustainable Tourism Development: Role of Caucasus Scientists".
Under the guidance of Nina Shatberashvili, Executive Director of the Caucasus Network for Sustainable Development of Mountain Regions and member of the Mountain Partnership’s Science and Knowledge Scientific Committee, the CMF3 brought together scientists, academics, governmental experts and practitioners to address the perspectives and challenges of tourism development in the region. The forum featured a diverse range of activities, including public plenary sessions, research sessions, workshops and poster sessions, providing a valuable opportunity to engage with high-level representatives and renowned experts from various institutions in mountain regions worldwide.
Distinguished guests, including several members of governments and organizations belonging to the Mountain Partnership and leading scientists and practitioners not only from the Caucasus countries but also from the Himalayas, the Alps, the Carpathians and Pyrenees, enriched the discussions with their expertise, inspiring innovative solutions for sustainable mountain tourism.
Established in July 2014, the SNC-mt has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among researchers and stakeholders interested in the Caucasus region. By promoting disciplinary, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research, SNC-mt aims to improve research capacity and bridge the gap between academia and sustainable development in the region.
CMF has emerged as a recognized platform for regional dialogue and cooperation, facilitating the sharing of research findings, exchange of ideas, and exploration of collaboration opportunities. Building upon the success of previous forums, CMF3 reinforced SNC-mt's commitment to connecting research with the needs of sustainable development and environmental protection in the Caucasus.
The outcomes and recommendations from CMF3 will shape policies and actions that prioritize the preservation and resilience of the Caucasus Mountains, contributing to the long-term well-being of the region and beyond. The event's impact will guide the efforts of researchers, policymakers and practitioners, unlocking the full potential of the Caucasus Mountains as a model for sustainable tourism development. Furthermore, the forum emphasized the significance of international collaboration, including participation in initiatives such as the Five Years Plan of Action for the Development of Mountain Regions and coordinated efforts within the Mountain Partnership.
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Photo by Nina Slashchilina
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