World Tourism Day 2021 to Focus on Inclusivity

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is inviting member and non-member states, sister UN agencies, businesses and individuals to celebrate inclusivity during World Tourism Day 2021 on September 27.

Under the theme “Tourism for Inclusive Growth”, the event will attempt to look beyond tourism statistics and acknowledge that, behind every number, there is a person.

“The pause in international travel caused by the [coronavirus] pandemic has made clear the relevance of tourism to our societies. The economic and social impact has been felt far beyond the sector itself. And in many places, the most vulnerable members of society have been hit hardest of all,” UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said.

Pololikashvili also highlighted the need for tourism to be open to all.

“The human desire to travel and explore is universal, which is why tourism must be open for everyone to enjoy. So too must the many social and economic benefits that tourism brings be available to everybody,” he added.

Photo source: UNWTO

Celebrated annually on September 27, World Tourism Day is the global observance day fostering awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political and economic value and the contribution that the sector can make towards reaching the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

This year’s official celebration of World Tourism Day will be hosted by Cote d’Ivoire in West Africa. Events will also take place all over the world. Press here for the events by the global tourism community on the occasion of World Tourism Day 2021.