WORLD TOURISM DAY 2024: "TOURISM AND PEACE"

Thiloththama Jayasinghe, Jadetimes Staff

T. Jayasinghe is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Travel News

---

Image Source : UN Tourism

World Tourism Day, commemorated each year on September 27, gives reason to believe that tourism is turning significant in shaping the world's economies, societies, and cultures. The theme of World Tourism Day 2024 will be "Tourism and Peace," emphasizing the power of travel in bridging the cultural divide and furthering mutual understanding to contribute toward lasting harmony in the world.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres declared in a statement that "Tourism brings people together,"summarizing the spirit of this year's celebration. By its nature, tourism is among the most prominent driving forces toward intercultural dialogue and collaboration; it builds up relationships that extend beyond borders, languages, and ideologies. It therefore helps destroy walls between countries and enables peace by exposing individuals to methods of life different from their own, appreciate them, and treat them respectfully.

The theme of "Tourism and Peace" has come at a time when the world is still confronted with geopolitical tensions, conflicts, and rising social divisions. In this light, tourism comes to play as soft power by reinforcing that peaceful coexistence is possible through human interaction, shared experiences, and cultural exchange. As travelers visit different countries and delve into diverse communities, they act as ambassadors of peace who spread good will and understanding across the globe.

Besides, sustainable tourism, which accelerates nowadays, contributes much to world peace. Many are now able to travel with a purpose: for instance, due to the increasing awareness of environmental protection and supporting the locals. The supportive tourism can indeed nurture peace in addition to alleviating poverty, providing jobs, and improving the quality of life across diverse parts of the globe.

Image Source : UN Tourism

"World Tourism Day 2024" will highlight case studies from countries where tourism has acted and continues to act as a real driver for peacebuilding and reconciliation-from post-conflict nations that have used tourism as an important element in rebuilding their economies to cultural exchange programs fostering international understanding, through which the power of tourism as a driver for peace will be unmistakable.

The UNWTO itself will organize several global events, forums, and discussions on the theme, bringing together policymakers, CEOs, and cultural ambassadors. These events will discuss conflict resolution through tourism, economic benefits accruing from peace, and ethical responsibility on the part of travelers to help make the world a more peaceful place.

In short, "World Tourism Day 2024" reminds us that tourism is not just a means to travel for pleasure; it forms a part of the peacebuilding processes in today's interconnected world. Embracing tourism to connect people and build peace propels us toward collaboration, understanding, and respect that will hallmark international relations in the future.

Hip Hop Icon Fatman Scoop Confirmed to Have Died from Heart Disease

Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff

V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Culture.

---

Image Source : Naomi Rahim

Rapper Collapsed On Stage Before Passing Away in Hospital

US authorities have confirmed that rapper and hip hop star Fatman Scoop, real name Isaac Freeman III, passed away due to heart disease. The 56 year old collapsed on stage during a performance in Connecticut in August and later died in the hospital. A spokesperson from the Connecticut chief medical examiner's office revealed that he suffered from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

A Career Marked by Success and Influence

Fatman Scoop is best known for his chart topping hit "Be Faithful," which reached number one in the UK in 2003. His energetic voice and presence also brought him success in collaborations with major artists like Timbaland and David Guetta. Additionally, his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother in 2015 expanded his reach beyond the music world.

A Beloved Performer and Family Man

In a statement released by his family after his passing, Scoop was remembered not just as a world class performer, but as a loving family member. "He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength, and courage," his family said, highlighting the personal impact he had on those close to him.

Legacy in Hip Hop

Fatman Scoop was regarded as one of New York’s most influential hip hop figures of the 1990s. His agency, MN2S, remarked that his "legacy will live on through his timeless music." They further praised his "iconic voice, infectious energy, and great personality," which made him a beloved figure in the global music industry.

His passing marks the loss of a truly unique artist whose impact on the music scene will continue to resonate for years to come.

"Twente Wanted It More" – Are Manchester United Showing Any Signs of Improvement?

Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff

V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Sports.

---

Image Source : Simon Stone

Lack of Intensity Raises Concerns Over United’s Progress

Manchester United's recent loss to FC Twente has sparked renewed concerns about the team's progress under manager Erik ten Hag. After a string of inconsistent performances, questions are being asked about whether the club is making any real improvements on the pitch.

Lacking Hunger and Drive

Following their 2 1 defeat to Twente, criticism emerged that United’s players lacked the hunger and drive to win, as highlighted by claims that “Twente wanted it more.” The Dutch side appeared more motivated, fighting for every ball and capitalizing on United’s defensive lapses. This led to a frustrating performance for United, where they were unable to match their opponents' intensity.

Defensive Struggles Continue

Defensive frailties have been a recurring theme for Manchester United this season. Once again, their backline was exposed, with miscommunication and poor marking leading to Twente’s goals. Despite Ten Hag’s attempts to solidify the defense, United still seem vulnerable under pressure, raising concerns about whether they’ve truly learned from past mistakes.

Midfield and Attacking Issues

While United’s midfield has shown flashes of creativity, it often struggles to maintain control of games, and their attack has lacked cutting edge finishing. In the Twente match, chances were created but not converted, with a lack of sharpness in the final third proving costly. Key players like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford have been inconsistent, and the team’s overall attacking play lacks cohesion.

Is There Any Progress?

Despite the negative result, there have been moments of improvement in Manchester United's play, particularly in ball retention and pressing. However, these improvements are often overshadowed by lapses in concentration and failure to deliver under pressure. Ten Hag’s tactical adjustments are evident, but the team has yet to fully translate those changes into consistent success on the pitch.

Moving Forward

The question remains: is Manchester United showing any real progress, or are they stuck in a cycle of inconsistency? With tough fixtures ahead, the club will need to address its lack of urgency, defensive problems, and inability to finish chances if they are to improve and push for success this season.

As fans and critics watch closely, Manchester United must find a way to not only perform better but to do so with the intensity and hunger seen in teams like Twente, who showed what it takes to win.