27 September: World Tourism Day
The Importance of Tourism
Tourism is one of the world’s most significant economic sectors, employing roughly one in every ten people globally and providing livelihoods to millions more. In some countries, tourism accounts for over 20% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), making it an essential pillar of their economies.
Beyond its economic impact, tourism enables people to experience the world’s rich cultural and natural diversity. It fosters connections between individuals from different backgrounds, building mutual understanding and emphasizing our shared humanity.
Tourism also plays a vital role in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 14 (Life Below Water). It often serves as a gateway to employment for women, youth, migrant workers, and rural populations, especially in developing and least developed countries (LDCs). Women make up the majority of the tourism workforce, with nearly half of all workers under the age of 25.
Additionally, tourism revenues are crucial for biodiversity conservation and environmental protection in many regions. The sector’s steady growth over the past six years has been driven by innovative travel options, reduced costs, and the expansion of the global middle class. The recognition of the right to holidays in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the broader adoption of labor rights worldwide have further supported tourism’s development.
Despite challenges such as global financial crises and natural disasters, tourism has demonstrated remarkable resilience, experiencing nearly uninterrupted growth in recent years.
The Role of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
Recognizing tourism’s global significance, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) established World Tourism Day. The first celebration took place in 1980 in Spain, marking the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes on 27 September 1970—a key milestone in international tourism history.
In 2015, during its seventieth session, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development (resolution A/RES/70/193). This initiative encouraged global support for sustainable tourism as a means to promote and accelerate sustainable development, with a special focus on poverty eradication.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism
The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound social and economic impact on the tourism sector worldwide. Both developed and developing economies faced significant setbacks, with marginalized communities and vulnerable populations most affected.
Reviving tourism is essential for stimulating economic recovery and growth. It is crucial that the benefits of this renewal are shared equitably across all segments of society. Reflecting this commitment, the UNWTO dedicated World Tourism Day 2021 to the theme “Tourism for Inclusive Growth.”
As the United Nations’ specialized agency for responsible and sustainable tourism, UNWTO is guiding the global sector toward inclusive recovery and sustainable growth. The organization strives to ensure that all voices—including those of minorities, children, and other marginalized groups—are heard in shaping the future of tourism.
Tourism is recognized as a cornerstone in achieving several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
- Goal 1: No Poverty
- Goal 5: Gender Equality
- Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
By fostering inclusivity and sustainability, tourism can make a significant contribution to global development and social cohesion.
Gallery: Celebrating World Tourism Day
Explore these vibrant images that capture the spirit of global tourism and its diverse cultural landscapes.
Conclusion
World Tourism Day, observed on 27 September, is an important occasion to acknowledge tourism’s wide-ranging impacts on global economies, cultures, and sustainable development. The day highlights tourism’s role in promoting inclusive growth, environmental conservation, and international solidarity.
As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, sustainable and inclusive tourism remains central to building resilient economies and communities. By supporting responsible travel and inclusive policies, we can ensure that tourism benefits everyone while safeguarding our planet’s cultural and natural heritage for generations to come.
For more information on sustainable tourism and global initiatives, visit the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals platform and the official UNWTO website.