UNWTO champions inclusivity

While both the developed and developing economies have been hit by the pandemic, marginalised groups and the most vulnerable have been hit hardest of all. It is therefore essential that the benefits, restart of tourism will bring, are enjoyed widely and fairly.

Hazel Jain

While both the developed and developing economies have been hit by the pandemic, the marginalised groups and the most vulnerable have been hit the hardest of all. The restart of tourism will help kick-start recovery and growth. It is essential that the benefits this will bring, are enjoyed widely and fairly. UNWTO has therefore designated World Tourism Day 2021 as a day to focus on tourism for inclusive growth with the theme ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’. It is to highlight tourism’s ability to drive inclusive development and the role it plays in promoting respect, while generating opportunities for millions across the globe.

This is an opportunity to look beyond tourism statistics and acknowledge that, behind every number, there is a person. ZurabPololikashvili, Secretary-General, UNWTO, says, “The human desire to travel and explore is universal, which is why tourism must be open for everyone to enjoy.So too, must the many social and economic benefits that tourism brings, be available to everybody. World Tourism Day 2021 highlights the power of ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’.By celebrating this day, we state our commitment that, as tourism grows, the benefits that come will be felt at every level of our broad and diverse sector, from the biggest airline to the smallest family business. Today, we reaffirm our pledge that, as we move forward and work to build a more prosperous and peaceful world through tourism, we will not leave anyone behind.”

He adds, “It is a pledge that is both timely and necessary. The pause in international travel caused by the pandemic has made clear, the relevance of tourism to our societies.The economic and social impact has been felt far beyond the sector itself. And in many places, the most vulnerable members of society have been hit hardest of all. Working for inclusive growth means getting everybody behind a better vision for tourism. Only this way can tourism’s restart, reach people and communities that need it the most right now and build the foundations for a better future for all.”

How industry can help:

Destinations and businesses: Ideas and commitments are nothing if they are not put into action. World Tourism Day is a chance for a diverse range of tourism stakeholders, including destinations and businesses of all sizes, to explore how they can be more inclusive as tourism restarts, to share best practices and to celebrate achievements.

Individual tourists: Tourism is all about people and experiences. Individual tourists are called on to be part of the conversation, sharing their thoughts on how the sector’s growth can be more inclusive.