Crisis Management Infrastructure

National Level Coordination

Tourism Crisis Unit

Permanent structure activated when needed:

  • 24/7 monitoring capability
  • Multi-ministry coordination
  • Industry liaison mechanisms
  • International communication

Key Players

  • Ministry of Tourism leadership
  • Security services integration
  • Health authorities involvement
  • Regional/local coordination
  • Industry association participation

Director Sophie Martineau explains: "We can activate full response within 30 minutes. But the real work happens before—relationships built, protocols tested, trust established. Crisis management is 90% preparation."

Regional and Local Response

Destination Management

Local response varies by resources:

  • Major cities: Dedicated crisis teams
  • Small destinations: Limited capacity
  • Rural areas: Often unprepared
  • Coordination challenges persist

Best Practice: Nice Model

Post-2016 comprehensive approach:

  • Integrated command center
  • Multi-language communication
  • Victim support services
  • Business continuity planning
  • Regular simulation exercises

Industry Self-Organization

Sector Solidarity

Competition suspended during crises:

  • Information sharing protocols
  • Mutual aid agreements
  • Collective marketing efforts
  • Unified messaging strategies

Professional Networks

Associations provide crucial support:

  • Legal guidance distribution
  • Financial aid navigation
  • Training program delivery
  • Advocacy coordination