Across Europe, the responsible restart of tourism is now underway. But even as growing numbers of tourists cross borders and businesses open up again, this is no time for complacency. “Just as we stressed at the beginning of this crisis: words of support are not enough for tourism to recover. Concrete actions are needed,” Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) said.
For UNWTO, this means supporting member states and the wider tourism sector as it adapts and transitions towards a more resilient and sustainable future. “The visit of a UNWTO delegation to the Canary Islands allowed us to do just this. Through inviting members of the media, private sector leaders and political leaders to join us for this official visit, UNWTO was able to show that tourism’s return can be managed safely and responsibly. It is possible to prioritise health while at the same time safeguarding jobs and promoting economic recovery,” he added.
At the same time, the innovation running through the sector means that the restart of tourism can help get the global community back on track with stakeholders working together to fulfil the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The UNWTO Sustainable Development Goals Startup Competition, which was launched this week, will identify new ideas with the power and potential to reimagine tourism and enhance the sector’s positive impact on people and planet.
Read more stories about initiatives from UNWTO here
