Tourism has long been the lifeblood of Cyprus’ economy and, increasingly, it has become a shared security priority for Nicosia and London.
British High Commissioner Michael Tatham explains why the UK has developed its Counter-Terrorism Awareness (CTA) e-learning platform specifically for Cyprus, making the island the first EU country to adopt the programme.
How does the UK’s decision to develop the Counter-Terrorism Awareness (CTA) e-learning platform specifically for Cyprus reflect the depth of UK–Cyprus cooperation in security and law enforcement?
The UK and the Republic of Cyprus have a thriving bilateral partnership across the board but, in particular, in the areas of security and law enforcement. We work together on challenges such as combatting illicit finance, sanctions evasion and trafficking networks. So, it is a natural evolution of this partnership to extend it into the area of tourism security, an issue that matters greatly to both Cyprus and the UK.
What makes the platform essential for Cyprus’ tourism sector and how does it strengthen resilience against evolving threats?
I hope the platform will be of real value to Cyprus – especially since tourism is a cornerstone of Cyprus’ economy, contributing billions of euros annually. The CTA e-learning platform will strengthen resilience because it will equip staff in hotels, airports and entertainment venues with practical skills. It will foster confidence and embed a culture of preparedness. The e-learning platform is a highly operational tool that is focused on planning, communication and effective response. By building these capabilities, it should strengthen resilience and help safeguard Cyprus’ position as a secure and welcoming destination.
Could this also position Cyprus as a regional hub for tourism security? If so, how might the UK support that ambition?
Cyprus has taken a pioneering step by being the first EU country to adopt this UK-developed programme. That leadership sets a benchmark for tourism security across Europe and the Mediterranean. Cyprus’ geographical location gives it obvious potential to serve as a regional hub in this and other areas. The United Kingdom certainly stands ready to support Cyprus in sharing best practices, hosting regional workshops and building capacity so that others can learn from its example.
What is the most important message you want tourism professionals in Cyprus to take from their CTA e-learning training?
The most important message is that security is a shared responsibility. Hotels, restaurants, airports and tourist attractions are all part of the front line in keeping visitors safe. Vigilance and hospitality go hand in hand because any good host wants to ensure that their guests are safe and protected. The British High Commission’s involvement reflects our commitment to our partnership and our recognition that this matters not just to Cyprus but also to the UK, given that British nationals account for over a third of the country’s tourist arrivals.
What is the biggest challenge in raising safety and security awareness across Cyprus’ tourism industry?
The greatest challenge lies in shifting perceptions, from viewing security as a regulatory obligation to embracing it as an integral part of customer care. Tourism professionals are dedicated to creating memorable experiences and security must complement that mission, not disrupt it. High staff turnover adds complexity, which is why e-learning is so valuable: it is accessible, scalable and easy to integrate into induction processes.
How does your belief that ongoing training is essential for maintaining a secure tourism environment align with the UK’s commitment to supporting Cyprus?
We all need to make sure that our skills and training are kept fresh and updated. Security is not static; threats evolve and so must our response. Ongoing training ensures that awareness remains current and embedded in daily practice. Combined with regular exercises, it reinforces procedures and builds instinctive confidence under pressure. The UK and Cyprus have a shared interest in tourism security and this e-learning programme is a good expression of that important and productive partnership.
For more information, please visit: www.cta.com.cy
(Original photo by TADOBI)
This interview first appeared in the December edition of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it.
