The launch of a specialised online platform for staff working in Cyprus’ tourism industry was announced in Limassol today, offering structured training on identifying potential threats and responding to crises.
The initiative aims to support the island’s most important economic sector by enhancing safety standards across hotels, airports, restaurants and entertainment venues.
A joint UK–Cyprus initiative
The platform is a joint project of the British High Commission in Cyprus and the Deputy Ministry of Tourism of the Republilc of Cyprus, and it is the first initiative of its kind in Europe. Speaking at the Safeguarding Cyprus’ Tourism Industry conference, British High Commissioner Michael Tatham said that the programme reflects the close cooperation between the two countries on security and law enforcement.
Safety matters
According to figures from 2024, 34 per cent of all visitors to Cyprus were British nationals. Michael Tatham noted that the UK and Cyprus share a strong interest in protecting the island’s tourism sector, which generated more than 3.2 billion euros last year. He added that safety, influences traveller decisions and that a destination’s reputation is an asset that is difficult to build and essential to preserve.
Experiences in other countries show that even a single security incident can result in loss of life and long-term damage to public confidence. Tourism jobs, investment and the wider perception of a destination can all be affected.
A tool for frontline staff
The High Commissioner described the platform as an operational tool that moves beyond theory. The training is designed for locations with high visitor numbers and includes realistic scenarios to help frontline staff act decisively during an emergency. Developing a culture of vigilance, he said, can reinforce Cyprus’ position as a safe and reliable Mediterranean destination.
According to Costas Constantinou, Permanent Secretary of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, the sector is exposed to a range of evolving risks, including geopolitical instability, terrorism, health crises and cyberattacks. He stated that preparedness is a shared responsibility and that every visitor should feel safe, every professional should be trained and every community should be protected.
The platform offers modules tailored to different roles and is available in both Greek and English. It integrates best-practice guidance and interactive content to support a wide range of tourism businesses.
Cyprus Police expressed full support for the programme. Following the presentation of the platform’s operational functions, a discussion with tourism stakeholders focused on the importance of coordinated action and consistent training across the industry.
Source: CNA