A recent survey conducted by the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) has shed light on the significant and multifaceted impact of global conflicts on the events industry. Out of 90 Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs) surveyed, a notable 60 per cent reported that these conflicts have adversely affected the planning or delivery of their events. Among them, 45 per cent indicated a moderate impact, while 14 per cent cited severe disruptions. This catalyses a broader conversation about the industry’s resilience in the face of ongoing geopolitical instability and shifting governmental policies.
Concerning safety and operational stability, approximately one-quarter of respondents confirmed the need to cancel, postpone, or relocate events due to these ongoing crises. The gravity of the situation is further underscored by the revelation that 57.14 per cent of respondents had between one and ten of their clients’ venues affected by global unrest. Additionally, 5.95 per cent reported greater disruptions, with venues 11 to 20 being compromised. Martin Boyle, IAPCO’s CEO, remarked that in 2024 alone, IAPCO members successfully managed 19,469 events globally, illustrating the scale of disruptions faced.
Financial repercussions are also significant. The survey indicated that 26.83 per cent of respondents experienced losses amounting up to €50,000 (approximately AU$87,056), while 14.64 per cent encountered even steeper losses exceeding €150,000 (around AU$261,169). Boyle described the findings as indicative of an industry grappling with complex pressures, including the need for effective operational logistics, maintaining stakeholder confidence, and ensuring financial viability.
Adding to the complexities are recent changes in US governmental policies, which have been met with mixed reactions from event planners. The survey found that 47 per cent of respondents believed these policies—spanning cuts to education funding, immigration regulations, and import taxes—have hindered their ability to efficiently plan and deliver events. Echoing this sentiment, other sources have cited specific challenges. For instance, the Trump administration’s policies were noted to have indirectly triggered event cancellations and reduced participation from federal employees due to restrictive communication norms.
Concerns surrounding travel restrictions, particularly those related to visa and immigration policies, were highlighted as the most pressing issue for PCOs, with 62 per cent identifying it as a primary challenge in event management. The ramifications extend beyond just logistical constraints; they underscore a persistent apprehension regarding safety and security at event destinations. A separate PCMA report indicated that safety issues are a primary concern for 38 per cent of international planners, pointing to a heightened sensitivity when selecting venues amid the current climate.
Despite these challenges, the events industry demonstrates signs of resilience and growth. According to IAPCO, the number of events delivered and economic impact have risen— from €13.48 billion in 2022 to €14.2 billion in 2023—reflecting an overall positive trend amidst adversity. However, nearly 30 per cent of planners noted that travel restrictions and budgeting constraints remain significant hurdles to this growth.
As the industry continues to navigate these complex challenges, the findings represent a crucial call to action for enhanced adaptability and collaboration among stakeholders. The path to recovery will undoubtedly require a thoughtful approach to contingency planning, operational flexibility, and fostering communication across the global meetings and events landscape.
In conclusion, while the pressing issues of global conflict and policy changes cast a long shadow over the events industry, the collective response and ongoing efforts to address these challenges underscore an inherent resilience that could foster opportunities for innovation and cohesive growth in the years to come.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
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