World Committee on Tourism Ethics Condemns Hideous Terrorist Attacks in Paris

The World Committee on Tourism Ethics, meeting in Paris on November 16, 2015, strongly condemns the terrorist attacks perpetrated last week in the capital of France and recently in other parts of the world.

We express our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims in this tragic moment and recall that terrorism is a global threat that requires a strong and coordinated action from the international community.

The French people have always stood up for the universal values we all share and we are confident that they will once again endure beyond the hate that these hideous acts want to generate.

Terrorism poses a direct threat to international stability, prosperity and to the cultural heritage of mankind. It targets the lives of innocents all around the world and it menaces the livelihoods of millions as it aims to paralyse our societies with fear and destroy our economies, including tourism.

As the body responsible for interpreting, applying and evaluating the provisions of the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, the Committee recalls that tourism as a force for peace, human rights and mutual understanding is the fundamental axis of the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.

Article I of the Code states that “The understanding and promotion of the ethical values common to humanity, with an attitude of tolerance and respect for the diversity of religious, philosophical and moral beliefs, are both the foundation and the consequence of responsible tourism; stakeholders in tourism development and tourists themselves should observe the social and cultural traditions and practices of all peoples, including those of minorities and indigenous peoples and to recognize their worth.”

The Committee has decided to maintain, as scheduled, its 16th Meeting of Committee, in Paris as a clear statement of support to the French people and our common fight against any form of terrorism.