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UN urges investment in clean, sustainable tourism, as numbers bounce back

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International tourism is showing strong signs of recovery, with tourist numbers rising to 57 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. On World Tourism Day, marked on Tuesday, the UN is calling for a major global rethink of the sector, to ensure that tourism is sustainable, and benefits local communities.

The UN World Tourism Organization ( UNWTO ) released encouraging news on Monday, with its latest World Tourism Barometer, which shows that international tourism arrivals almost tripled in the first seven months of 2022 (compared to the same period in 2021).

Cautious optimism

The agency’s Panel of Tourism Experts expressed cautious confidence for the rest of year, and into 2023, despite the uncertain economic environment: increasing interest rates, rising energy and food prices, and the growing prospects of a global recession, continue to pose major threats to the sector.

In a message released to mark the Day, the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, hailed tourism’s ability to drive sustainable development, and called for more investment in clean and sustainable tourism, the creation of decent jobs, and for measures to ensure that profits benefit host countries and local communities.

Go green to survive

“Governments, businesses and consumers must align their tourism practices with the Sustainable Development Goals and a 1.5 degree future”, said Mr. Guterres, referring to international agreements aimed at keeping global warming in check. “The very survival of this industry, and many tourist destinations, such as Small Island Developing States, depends on it.”

“The restart of tourism everywhere brings hope,” declared Zurab Pololikashvili, UNWTO Secretary-General, in his address at the opening of the official celebrations organized for the Day, in the Indonesian resort city of Bali.

Mr. Pololikashvili described tourism, which employs around 10 per cent of the global workforce, as the “ultimate cross-cutting and people-to-people sector, which touches on almost everything we do.”

Report card

To mark the day, UNWTO launched its first World Tourism Day Report , the first in an annual series of updates and analysis of the Organization’s work guiding the sector forward.

The report contains updates on the agency’s activities in key areas including gender equality, sustainability and climate action, tourism governance and investments and innovation.

Representatives of the G20 group of the world’s leading economies, including tourism ministers, will meet in Bali in November. Ahead of the event, UNWTO has produced a set of guidelines for ministers, to enable them to support resilient and sustainable tourist businesses, which take into account human capital, innovation, youth and women empowerment, and climate action.

Ensure zero-tolerance for sexual exploitation: UN rights expert

An independent UN rights expert released a statement ahead of the Day, to call for Governments to ensure that the tourism industry is free from child forced labour, sexual abuse and sexual exploitation. 

Mama Fatima Singhateh, UN Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children, warned that the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and socioeconomic setbacks have caused enormous strains on child protection systems.

This, she said, has made children more vulnerable to sale, trafficking and sexual exploitation in the context of travel and tourism, especially in countries that have traditionally relied on the income generated from travel and tourism.  

Tourism and the climate crisis

• In response to concerns surrounding the impact of the tourism sector on the climate crisis, UNWTO launched the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism at the 2021 UN Climate Conference (COP26), which was held in the Scottish City.
• Signatories commit to supporting global commitments to halve harmful emissions by 2030, and reach Net Zero as soon as possible before 2050, implement climate action plans, and report on their progress on an annual basis.
• To date more than 530 organizations have signed the Declaration, including major international companies, and tourism boards from a wide variety of countries.  

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Resilient tourism

For many developing countries, including the least developed countries, small island developing states, countries in Africa and middle-income countries, tourism is a major source of income, foreign currency earnings, tax revenue and employment. Because tourism connects people with nature, sustainable tourism has the unique ability to spur environmental responsibility and conservation.

Sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, is a cross-cutting activity that can contribute to the three dimensions of sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by fostering economic growth, alleviating poverty, creating full and productive employment and decent work for all.

It can also play a role in accelerating the change to more sustainable consumption and production patterns and promoting the sustainable use of oceans, seas and marine resources, promoting local culture, improving the quality of life and the economic empowerment of women and young people, indigenous peoples and local communities and promoting rural development and better living conditions for rural populations, including small-holder and family farmers.

The use of sustainable and resilient tourism as a tool to foster sustained and inclusive economic growth, social development and financial inclusion, enables the formalization of the informal sector, the promotion of domestic resource mobilization and environmental protection and the eradication of poverty and hunger, including the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and natural resources and the promotion of investment and entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism.

Global Tourism Resilience Day (17 February), proclaimed by the General Assembly in resolution A/RES/77/269 , aims to emphasize the need to foster resilient tourism development to deal with shocks, taking into account the vulnerability of the tourism sector to emergencies. It is also a call for action for Member States to develop national strategies for rehabilitation after disruptions, including through private-public cooperation and the diversification of activities and products.

• Tourism Data Dashboard

The UNWTO Tourism Data Dashboard – provides statistics and insights on key indicators for inbound and outbound tourism at the global, regional and national levels. Data covers tourist arrivals, tourism share of exports and contribution to GDP, source markets, seasonality and accommodation (data on number of rooms, guest and nights).

Tourism for the SDGs Platform

2027 — International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism

In February 2024, the General Assembly decided to proclaim 2027 the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism.

It encouraged all states, the United Nations system and all other actors to take advantage of the International Year to promote actions at all levels, including through international cooperation, and to support sustainable and resilient tourism as a means of promoting and accelerating sustainable development.

Did you know?

• Tourism supports millions of direct and indirect jobs all over the world, in particular for women and young people. [Report A/77/219 ]
• For some small island states and developing countries, tourism accounts for over 20 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). [Report A/77/219 ]
• The economic contribution of tourism (tourism direct GDP) was estimated at $1.9 trillion in 2021, higher than the $1.6 trillion recorded for 2020, but still well below the pre-pandemic value of $3.5 trillion. [Report A/77/219 ]

Promoting the value of protected areas, safeguarding biodiversity, and building sustainable livelihoods - ecotourism reveals Egypt’s natural wonders . 

• Resolution A/RES/77/269 "Global Tourism Resilience Day"
• Resolution A/RES/78/260 "International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism, 2027"
• Resolution A/RES/77/178 "Promotion of sustainable and resilient tourism, including ecotourism, for poverty eradication and environmental protection"
• Report A/77/219 of the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization on the promotion of sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, for poverty eradication and environment protection
• The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism
• World Tourism Day 2022 Report: From Crisis to Transformation
• Guiding Tourism Recovery
• World Tourism Barometer
• UNWTO/IATA Destination Tracker - Easy Travel
• Best Tourism Villages
• International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
• Sustainable Development Goals
• Tourism 4 SDGs
• World Tourism Day

World Tourism Organization

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is a leading UN international agency in the field of tourism. Its mission is to promote tourism as a driver of  economic growth, inclusive development  and  environmental sustainability  and offers leadership and support to the sector in advancing knowledge and tourism policies worldwide. Discover how they are working to cope with this pandemic along with the tourism sector and other UN agencies. 

How my tourism business survived COVID-19

My name is Dekha Dewandana, I’m 46 years old. I’m the owner of Esa di Kubu homestay in Sudaji Village, Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia. Despite the difficulties during the pandemic, I didn't give up. I followed what I was taught during the ILO training: to be the owner and host of our own village. This is the story of Dekha's success in this paradisiacal country that host the World Tourism Day 2022 celebrations.

Why do we mark International Days?

International days and weeks are occasions to educate the public on issues of concern, to mobilize political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. The existence of international days predates the establishment of the United Nations, but the UN has embraced them as a powerful advocacy tool. We also mark other UN observances .

About World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day is an annual celebration of the global tourism industry, recognized every year on September 27th. This special day provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of tourism, its impact on the world, and to raise awareness about the benefits of responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

What is World Tourism Day?

World Tourism Day was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization ( UNWTO ) in 1980. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its impact on the global economy, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability. Each year, World Tourism Day has a different theme, highlighting various aspects of tourism and its benefits.

Every year, the UNWTO selects a specific theme for World Tourism Day. The theme is chosen to reflect current trends and challenges facing the tourism industry, and to promote new initiatives and ideas for the future. In 2021, the theme for World Tourism Day was "Tourism for Inclusive Growth," highlighting the importance of creating sustainable tourism opportunities that benefit all members of society, including those in marginalized and vulnerable communities.

When is World Tourism Day?

Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange. It is a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. World Tourism Day provides an opportunity to recognize the immense potential of tourism as a force for good and to raise awareness about the challenges facing the industry.

The Importance of World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day is observed annually on September 27th. This day is an opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate the transformative power of tourism and its ability to create a better world.

One of the primary goals of World Tourism Day is to raise awareness about the social, cultural, and economic benefits of tourism. Travel and tourism are among the world's largest industries, generating significant income and employment opportunities in many countries around the world. In fact, according to the UNWTO, the tourism sector accounts for around 10% of global GDP and employs one in ten people worldwide.

But beyond the economic benefits, tourism also plays a vital role in promoting cross-cultural understanding, fostering peace and tolerance, and preserving cultural heritage. Tourism can also help to promote sustainable development, protect natural resources, and support local communities by providing income and employment opportunities.

When it comes to celebrating World Tourism Day, there are a variety of activities and events taking place around the world. Some countries organize tourism fairs and exhibitions, while others hold conferences, seminars, and workshops focused on promoting responsible tourism practices. In recent years, there has also been a growing trend of digital events, including webinars, online forums, and social media campaigns.

One of the most significant achievements of World Tourism Day has been its role in promoting sustainable tourism practices. As more and more people travel, it's essential to ensure that tourism is managed in a way that respects local communities and the environment. The UNWTO has developed a set of guidelines for sustainable tourism, known as the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, which encourages tourists to be responsible and respectful when traveling.

Some of the key principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism include respecting local customs and traditions, protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting cultural understanding. By adhering to these principles, tourists can help to ensure that tourism continues to benefit local communities and the environment while promoting social and cultural diversity.

Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, and it has the potential to create enormous benefits for both people and the planet. It contributes to economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange, and it is a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, with many businesses and communities struggling to survive.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, World Tourism Day presents an opportunity to rethink and transform tourism into a more sustainable and resilient industry. The celebration of this day highlights the importance of tourism and its potential to create a better future for all.

World Tourism Day is celebrated in various ways worldwide, including cultural festivals, food fairs, adventure sports, and nature walks. These activities showcase the unique features of different destinations, promote local businesses, and encourage sustainable tourism practices. They also provide an opportunity for tourists and locals to come together and experience the diversity of cultures and traditions that make our world so fascinating.

World Tourism Day is a crucial event that celebrates the importance of tourism and its impact on the world.

This Day is an occasion to celebrate the power of travel and tourism in creating a better world. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of tourism and its potential to promote economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental sustainability. As we celebrate this day, we must also recognize the challenges facing the tourism industry and work together to promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit both people and the planet.

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World Tourism Day honors global travel, promoting cultural awareness, and highlights tourism's socioeconomic importance. Observed annually on September 27th.

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