Destinations International, the Washington-based association for convention bureau and destination marketing organisations, has evicted its sole Russian member in response to the Ukraine crisis.
The organisation said it had terminated the membership of the Saint Petersburg Convention Bureau and would ‘not engage in further business in Russia until a peaceful resolution takes place’.
"Our hearts have been with the people of Ukraine since the Russian government began its unprovoked and unconscionable attack on that nation. Destinations International condemns the Russian government’s acts of aggression and urges an expeditious end to the war in Ukraine,” the organisation said in a statement.
Adding: “We believe that tourism is a bridge that connects people of diverse backgrounds and different cultures; we strive to build a community of destination professionals who believe in goodwill toward all people.”
Last week, the organisation donated to World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization that has been on the ground in Ukraine feeding displaced people since the outbreak of violence.
The statement added: “We encourage our 600 members and our partners throughout the world to show their support of the people of Ukraine in any way possible, including making charitable donations to World Central Kitchen or any other organization making a positive impact in Ukraine."
Other meetings industry associations have issued statements condemning Russia's attack on Ukraine, as the country's isolation from the international meetings community gathers pace.
*Note: A message from Tom Kemp, CEO of Northstar Travel Group, publishers of this title.
“Travel connects us, war divides us. Northstar strongly condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and expresses its support of Ukraine in defence of their sovereign democracy. We stand with other businesses in the travel industry by not engaging in any business with Russian-owned companies until the war in Ukraine is resolved peacefully and the sovereignty of a free Ukraine is ensured.”
Written By
James Lancaster
AMI editor James
Lancaster is a familiar face in the meetings industry and international
association community. Since joining AMI in 2010, he has gained a reputation
for asking difficult questions and getting lost in convention centres. Proofer, podcaster, and panellist - in his spare time, James likes to walk,
read, listen to music, and drink beer.
