Third International Seminar on Tourism Law concludes in Havana

Photo: Panchito González

Cuban Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda, expressed his gratitude to the organizers and participants of the Third International Seminar on Tourism Law, held in Havana until December 11. The event brought together jurists, academics, and representatives of international organizations from more than 20 countries to analyze the legal challenges facing the sector.

In his closing remarks, García Granda emphasized that the seminar was a genuine learning experience and that events like this allow for showcasing the real Cuba despite its challenges. He also invited attendees to enjoy Havana, a vibrant city, and destinations like Varadero.

The minister confirmed that a Fourth International Seminar on Tourism Law is already being planned. The host country is yet to be determined, taking into account the applications received, and Cuba will offer its collaboration to ensure the event’s success.

Meanwhile, Alicia Gómez, director of Legal Affairs and International Standards at UN Tourism, summarized the two days as intense, enriching and exciting. She emphasized that sustainability and accessibility in tourism are no longer aspirational concepts, but clear legal imperatives.

Gómez explained the responsibility of legal professionals to ensure that laws balance economic development with the protection of natural and cultural heritage. “Tourism must contribute to social well-being, benefit local communities, and preserve the authenticity of destinations,” she stated.

The UN Tourism representative also addressed the importance of international legal instruments. These standards, she indicated, facilitate global consensus while allowing flexibility for each country to adapt them to its specific circumstances. She considered their agility essential in such a dynamic sector, where national legislation often lags behind.

She then expressed her gratitude to Cuba for hosting the event and acknowledged the country’s particular vulnerability to climate phenomena, as well as its commitment to environmental protection.

In closing, Alicia Gómez thanked the moderators, panelists and participants for their legal expertise and collaborative spirit, concluding with a shared reflection: travel broadens the mind and expands the soul, and many attendees will leave with their hearts “a little bigger” because of the wonderful people they encountered.