A new advocacy movement, The Athens Promise, has been launched to unite the global meetings and events industry under a single, powerful message: the significance of business events must be recognised worldwide. Spearheaded by the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) in collaboration with the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC), AMC Institute (AMCI), and PCMA, the initiative encourages industry professionals globally to pledge their support for advocacy efforts.

The Athens Promise emerged from the IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly in Athens earlier this year. It invites members of participating associations and the broader global meetings community to sign a pledge, demonstrating their commitment to advocating for the sector's value to policymakers and communities.

The movement aims to inspire local action and foster clearer communication with governments and media, highlighting the economic, professional, and social impacts of meetings and events. "The Athens Promise was born at the IAPCO meeting in Athens, where global leaders came together with a shared belief that our industry has a bigger story to tell," said Sissi Lignou, President of IAPCO.

Sven Bossu, CEO of AIPC, emphasised the collective nature of the initiative: "Making real change requires more than the voice of one organisation. It is about all of us." Tina Wehmeir, CEO of AMCI, noted the industry's role as a "powerful driver of economic progress, innovation, professional development, and social connection."

The Athens Promise seeks to empower individuals and organisations to engage with local governments and media, building on existing advocacy work. By signing the pledge, participants express their support for a more visible and respected meetings and events industry. The initiative is supported by shared marketing assets and partner communications, with the pledge open to all professionals and organisations worldwide

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