US, Sept. 21 -- The United Nations marks the International Day of Peace on September 21, and the 2026 theme is "Invest in Peace - For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day." The UN says this year's observance recognizes the "everyday architects of peace" - people whose actions build stability and understanding from the ground up.

For the global travel and tourism industry, that message has particular meaning.

Few industries move as many people across borders, cultures, religions and political systems as tourism. Every flight, hotel stay, guided tour and shared meal potentially creates an encounter between people who otherwise might never meet.

But does travel automatically create peace? Leaders associated with the International Institute for...