Today, G.O.R.K.I. SPbU hosted a business breakfast dedicated to a highly relevant topic: “Mass Tourism and Geopolitics.” The conversation centered on the growing intersection between global travel and political realities. International tourism has become one of the most visible manifestations of globalization, yet many travelers continue to rely on simplified images of destinations, often overlooking deeper political, social, and security contexts. Among the key questions raised during the discussion: To what extent should travelers be aware of the political environment of the countries they visit? And where does responsibility lie when rapidly changing geopolitical circumstances disrupt travel plans — with individuals, governments, or both? Recent developments provided a concrete backdrop for the debate. The situation in the UAE in March 2026, when thousands of Russian tourists were temporarily unable to leave due to disruptions in air traffic, highlighted the real-world implications of these issues. Challenges related to consular support, evacuation logistics, and risk assessment in travel planning were brought sharply into focus. The discussion underscored that mass tourism is no longer isolated from geopolitics. On the contrary, it is increasingly entangled with it — reflecting broader global uncertainties and requiring a more informed and responsible approach from all actors involved. #Tourism #Geopolitics #Globalization #InternationalRelations