2021 World Tourism Day set to celebrate inclusivity

In an intervention that aims to drive the global recovery of the pandemic impacted industry, the United Nations World Tourism Organization has invited all member states, stakeholder businesses and individuals involved in the industry to celebrate the upcoming World Tourism Day.

Celebrated every year on the 27th September globally, the UNWTO has announced the theme of this year’s edition as inclusivity, with a focus on tourism for inclusive growth, acknowledging that “behind every number, there is a person”.

In a statement, the global body advises “UNWTO invites its member states, as well as non-members, sister UN agencies, businesses, and individuals to celebrate tourism’s unique ability to ensure that nobody is left behind as the world begins to open up again and look to the future.

“This is an opportunity to gain a holistic perspective: rather than simply looking at stats, growth and monetary benefits, the industry needs to look at development, wellness, and overall inclusive growth.

“(As) the revival of the tourism industry will induce employment, growth, and more opportunities … the motif of this year’s World Tourism Day is to help people from all communities and regions to get the benefits of the world tourism sector fairly.”

The UNWTO’s statement continues “the COVID-19 pandemic has had a massive social and economic impact. Both developed and developing economies have been hit … and marginalised groups and the most vulnerable have been hit hardest of all.”

First marked in 1980, the UNWTO added World Tourism Day “is precious to the industry and the world economy as it celebrates tourism’s social, cultural, economic, and political value.

“Apart from that, the sector is swiftly moving towards sustainable development goals. Many agencies around the world have pledged to adhere to the 17 sustainable development goals.”

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Image courtesy of Tourism New Zealand.