After a long absence online, I’m finally back today. It’s been pretty quiet on my site since April 2024 – but for good reason! In January 2024 I was elected President of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA). elected. An incredible honor, but one that also entails many tasks. In addition to my companies and numerous projects, this voluntary responsibility has taken up all my time in recent months.
But I’m slowly getting better at balancing the many hats I’m wearing. In particular, my leadership coach Dr. Johannes Metzler who, with his clever advice and targeted methods, inspires me not to lose sight of the essentials.
Why I am speaking up now
In a world in which personalities such as Donald Trump – a man who knows no shame and is only out for revenge – or Elon Musk – a brilliant but unfortunately megalomaniacal genius – are among the most influential people, we cannot and must not remain silent. In Austria, my adopted country, we are threatened by a chancellor who openly displays extreme right-wing traits and could be supported by a party obsessed with power. The EU, which so urgently needs to be strengthened, is facing the rise of right-wing populist forces such as the AfD, Viktor Orbán and others. These developments make it clear how important it is for us to play an active role. So what can we do?
My contribution: Showing responsibility in turbulent times
As President of the World Federation, I am delighted to be addressing precisely these issues in a global context. Tourist guides play a crucial role in communicating history honestly and responsibly and building bridges between cultures.
That’s why I was invited to speak at a conference in Philadelphia about the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) for tourist guides. But before I go to the USA, I’m giving a special lecture in Washington, D.C.. I will be speaking there on January 27, 2024 at the invitation of the Washington Guild of Tourist Guides on the following topic:
“Ethical Responsibility of Tourist Guides in the Age of Alternative Truths and Populism”
At a time when fake news, alternative facts and populism dominate our everyday lives, ethical values are more important than ever. Tourist guides have a great responsibility to convey history correctly, sensitively and free of ideological distortions. We need to ask ourselves: What role do guides play as communicators of facts and how can they build trust in today’s world?
Be there – also online!
Anyone interested in this important topic can take part in the event online – even if it is taking place a little late for Europeans (22:00 CET). You can find all the details here:
➡️ Ethical Responsibility of Tourist Guides – Information and registration
Let’s work together to ensure that values such as truth, respect and mutual understanding are not lost in the tourism industry.
I look forward to seeing many of you at these events – whether virtually or on site!
