The United Nations has started the process of drawing up a new set of global standards for accessible tourism.
In partnership with the ONCE Foundation and Spanish Association for Standardization (UNE), the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is developing a “global and transversal international standard” for accessibility in the areas of tourism planning and destination management.
Following a review of existing standards, the three parties aim to establish new technical criteria, recommendations and requirements for accessible tourism. These will aim to assist not only disabled travellers, but also the elderly and families with children.
“Accessible tourism is the answer to everyone’s universal right to travel and discover the world. At the same time, it is an opportunity for the tourism industry to capture a global marketplace that includes millions of people with disabilities, seniors, families with young children and many others who encounter numerous barriers, both physical and cultural, when travelling,” said UNWTO executive director Marcio Favilla.
A working group has been established to drive the creation of the new standards, including representatives from 11 countries and several associations, including those relating to hotels, restaurants and tour operators.