Mega Events: Week 13 Overview

Mega-events are large-scale cultural (including commercial and sporting) events with a dramatic character, mass appeal, and international significance.
Mega-events are characterized by their distinctive "stand-alone" nature, setting them apart as "out-of-the-ordinary events".
The term "mega-event" emerged in academic studies in the 1987 37th Congress of the Association Internationale d'Experts Scientifiques du Tourisme in Calgary, focusing on the theme of the "Role and Impact of Mega-Events and Attractions on Regional and National Tourism Development".
Mega-events can be evaluated based on their visitor attractiveness, mediated reach, cost, and transformative impact.

Cultural mega-events: large-scale cultural events usually with a national and international profile, organized on a larger scale than routine sporting fixtures.
Political mega-events: events with implications for international relations, diplomacy, or global policy. Often attract significant media coverage and public interest (e.g., G7, G20, COP Summits).
Sporting mega-events: large-scale sporting competitions or championships that attract global attention, significantly impacting host cities and countries. Often involve extensive planning and investment.

Economic Boost: Draws massive crowds, boosting tourism, increasing spending, creating jobs (construction, hospitality, security).
Infrastructure Development: Mega-events can catalyze infrastructure upgrades (stadiums, transportation, public spaces).
Investment & Development: Can attract foreign investment, stimulate urban renewal, boost long-term economic development.
Social Benefits: Creates a sense of civic pride and social cohesion.

Financial Risks: Cost overruns are common, leaving host cities with significant debt and uncertain return on investment.
Opportunity Costs: Resources diverted from other essential public services, like education or healthcare.
Uncertain Returns: Economic benefits aren't always guaranteed.

Pre-Event Period: Bidding period, organizational works.
Event Period: Actual organizational works, operation of infrastructure and event.
Post-Event Period: Analysis period. Post-event reports.

Guarantees from host city to event owner.
Profile of host city (demographic, environmental, economic, and political information).
Content plans for the event.
Plans for facilities, accommodation, and transport.
Plans for associated celebratory and educational events.
Access to a spectrum of Culture Company assets, including intellectual property, category exclusivity, corporate & consumer use (e.g., sponsors, ticketing) and event creation upgrade opportunities.

Three criteria for a 'public good' justify massive public sector investment:
- Events must fit into accepted policy domains (e.g., culture, health, economy).
- Substantial, inclusive, and demonstrable public benefits.
- Rules, accountability & transparency for all spending.

Events are often held near transport hubs and population centers, making them potential targets.
Economic disruption from events disruption or a terrorist attack can cause significant damage.
Media presence leads to increased reporting of any event, especially attacks or safety concerns.
The anonymity of large crowds enables terrorists to blend in unnoticed.

Immediate: Employment drop, tourism market oversaturation.
Intermediate: Underutilized infrastructure, figuring out long-term use of facilities, post-event management.
Legacy: Urban regeneration, economic impact, and improvement of the region's quality of life. Challenges include urban regeneration success, "white elephant" problems, and public perception management.

Expo themed "Future Energy".
Held in Astana, Kazakhstan from June 10th to September 10th, 2017.
Included participation from 115 countries, 22 international organizations, 40 heads of states, and 72 foreign ministers.

The idea and the process of obtaining the status as a host of the expo started in 2008 in Zaragoza, Spain.
Kazakhstan's bid was approved in 2012.
"Future Energy" was the theme of the expo.

Expo site constructed on a 174-hectare area, featuring exhibition pavilions, a conference center, residential areas, and the Nur Alem sphere.
Extensive infrastructure development included new roads, transportation, and utilities.
Marketing and promotion campaign ("Grow Green") utilized social media, traditional media, and partnerships with travel agents.
A volunteer program of 10,000 volunteers provided support and assistance to visitors.
Comprehensive security measures.

3,500 events, forums, and international summits over three months.
Diverse program including daily shows to high-level political summits.
28 heads of state and over 100 heads of government and ministers visited.
Future Energy Forum included international scientists, scholars, and policymakers focusing on sustainable energy.
Included 3 pre-Expo meetings and 12 conferences.