UN Hosts Tourism for Sustainable Development Event
Aligned With Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations General Assembly, in its commitment to global sustainability, convened a thematic event on April 16, 2024, as part of a significant global initiative.
The event, focusing on tourism and its pivotal role in advancing sustainable development and resilience worldwide, underscores the collective effort needed for a sustainable future.
Organised by the President of the UN General Assembly in collaboration with UN Tourism, the event occurred at the UN headquarters in New York City as part of Sustainability Week, drawing participation from UN member states, observers, civil society organisations, and UN agencies.
The Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili, emphasised the sector’s growing significance and stressed the need for heightened responsibility to safeguard its continuity.
Addressing the assembly, he said: “Resilience in tourism is not just reactive; it’s about proactively addressing underlying factors such as unsustainable consumption leading to biodiversity loss, climate change, and the emergence of pandemics.”
President of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis, echoed these sentiments, advocating for a sustainable global tourism sector that enhances local economies and positively impacts communities.
Global Initiative
He highlighted the crucial role of the audience, stating that their efforts are not just essential but instrumental in promoting biodiversity conservation and climate-friendly livelihoods, making them key players in this global initiative.
The event was a high-level platform for sharing best practices and strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key highlights included a fireside chat discussing the future of tourism, emphasising the need for innovative solutions, and ministerial roundtables focusing on launching the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism and strategies for fostering resilient tourism in the face of global challenges.
In closing, President Dennis Francis reiterated the importance of collaboration and partnership to address the complex challenges facing the tourism sector, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to supporting sustainable tourism as a catalyst for positive change.
The assembly’s efforts align with the recent adoption of a resolution declaring 2027 the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism, emphasising the UN’s dedication to working with governments, agencies, and international organisations to implement it.
Pivotal Juncture
In 2024, global tourism stands at a pivotal juncture, navigating a landscape marked by challenges and opportunities. The sector, which serves as a vital engine for economic growth, cultural exchange, and environmental conservation, has been significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath.
However, amidst the setbacks, signs of resilience and adaptation offer glimpses of hope for its recovery and transformation.
The pandemic, with its unprecedented travel restrictions and border closures, inflicted a severe blow to the tourism industry, leading to plummeting international arrivals, widespread job losses, and the closure of businesses.
As countries grappled with containing the virus and mitigating its spread, the tourism sector bore the brunt of the crisis, experiencing a sharp decline in revenue and disruptions across the entire value chain.
Nevertheless, as the world gradually emerged from the pandemic, rays of optimism illuminated the path forward for global tourism. With the rollout of vaccines and the easing of travel restrictions in many regions, there is a palpable sense of pent-up demand and a longing to explore new destinations and reconnect with loved ones.
This resurgence in travel presents an opportunity for the tourism industry to rebuild more robust, sustainable, and inclusive systems that prioritise safety, resilience, and environmental stewardship while furthering development.
In response to the lessons learned from the pandemic, stakeholders across the tourism ecosystem embrace innovative strategies and technologies to adapt to the new normal.
Minimising Risks
From the widespread adoption of contactless payment systems and digital health passports to promoting outdoor and nature-based experiences, there is a concerted effort to reimagine tourism practices to minimise risks while maximising experiences.
Moreover, there is a growing recognition of the interconnectedness between tourism and sustainable development. Governments, businesses, and travellers increasingly prioritise destinations and experiences that prioritise environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.
This shift towards sustainable tourism practices reflects a broader commitment to leaving a positive legacy for future generations while ensuring the long-term viability of the tourism industry.
While the road to recovery may be fraught with challenges, the global tourism sector’s resilience and adaptability cause optimism.
By embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, stakeholders can rebuild and reimagine tourism to foster prosperity, inclusivity, and resilience for all.
Featured image: Tourists laze on a beach in Candolim, in the coastal resort state of Goa, India. Credit: Arnold Pinto
