Tourism as a driver of rural empowerment: UN Tourism Global Conference concludes in Viet Nam

• All Regions
• 12 Dec 2024

UN Tourism joined with the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Vietnam to host the First Conference on Tourism for Rural Development in the historic town of Hoi An. The event brought together government officials, international and regional financial institutions, development agencies, tourism professionals, rural community leaders, researchers and NGOs to explore policies and strategies to maximize the role of tourism in progressing development in rural areas.

Empowering Communities

Sessions spotlighted the power of tourism to create jobs, safeguard nature and cultural heritage, and promote social inclusion, with a focus on empowering local communities, women and youth. Key discussions included topics such as policy frameworks for rural tourism development, growing agriculture and tourism synergies to drive sustainability, market access and integration, innovative digital tools and funding mechanisms to support rural destinations, entrepreneurs and community-led initiatives.

Opening the conference Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director, UN Tourism said: "This landmark event has demonstrated the immense potential of tourism to transform rural communities. By placing people and planet at the center of our discussions, we have fostered meaningful connections and actionable strategies that will ripple across rural areas worldwide. Together, we have sown the seeds for a more inclusive and sustainable future."

Le Thanh Long, Deputy Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, said: “The Tourism for Rural Development Programme by UN Tourism is consistent with Viet Nam's development strategy and distinct potentials, competitive advantages, and outstanding opportunities with the orientation of rapid, sustainable development, green growth, digital transformation, and circular economy.”

Placing tourism  on the rural development agenda

The conference emphasized the importance of placing tourism firmly on the rural development agenda ensuring that it is fully integrated into funding for rural development and infrastructure planning.

The event stressed the importance of partnerships across sectors to ensure tourism not only drives economic growth but also preserves cultural heritage and natural resources. The panels collectively aimed to explore transformative strategies for leveraging rural tourism as a driver of sustainable development. Discussions included crafting effective government policies, addressing infrastructure challenges, and fostering public-private partnerships to amplify local initiatives.

Panelists from key organizations including the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Mekong Tourism, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and companies such as Fliggy, Intrepid Travel, Japan Travel Bureau (JTB), Meta, Planeterra, and Traveloka shared valuable insights on advancing rural tourism. They highlighted the critical role of sustainable tourism in fostering economic resilience, protecting cultural heritage, and creating equitable opportunities for rural communities. Media experts Carmen Roberts, TV Presenter and Travel Journalist, BBC Travel Show and Kanchan Nath, Senior Editor at Travel Daily Media shared their communication insights. Discussions provided key takeaways on integrating tourism with agriculture, ensuring inclusivity, and leveraging partnerships to drive long-term impact in rural destinations.

Fliggy Partnership to Drive Rural Development

During the event, UN Tourism and Fliggy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration on development of rural tourism. The partnership is designed to promote responsible tourism practices, foster technological innovation, and encourage knowledge exchange and capacity building. Key initiatives will include showcasing Best Tourism Villages, creating training programmes, and conducting joint research to support rural tourism.

Best Tourism Villages Network Annual Meeting

The conference also hosted the Second Annual Meeting of the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Network, with 50 representatives from over 30 villages coming together in Viet Nam. Attendees reflected on the Network's achievements, assessed its current state, and discussed ways to improve planning, coordination, and ownership among the villages. A strategic framework was also adopted, outlining a clear path forward to strengthen and build on the Network's foundation.

The Best Tourism Villages Network brings together the villages recognized as Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism as well as those in the Upgrade Programme.

Related links

• Download News Release on PDF
• Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism
• First UN Tourism Conference on Tourism for Rural Development and Second Annual Meeting of the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Network

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UN Tourism: Accessible travel “a game changer” for destinations and businesses

• All Regions
• 3 Dec 2024

Small investments in accessibility and innovation can deliver be a game-changer for tourism destinations everywhere. But, despite 1.3 billion worldwide people already experiencing significant disability, many destinations and tourism businesses are still failing to embrace the many benefits of welcoming these travellers.

To mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, UN Tourism has joined with its partners ONCE Foundation and the Spanish Association for Standardization to highlight the immense economic and social benefits of increasing the accessibility of tourism for persons with disabilities and specific requirements and for seniors, against the ISO 21902:2021 Standards on Accessible Tourism.

The latest research makes clear the growing demand for accessible travel: 

• Globally, 1.3 billion people already experiencing significant disability
• 1 in 6 of the population set to be aged 60 and over in 5 years' time
• Travellers with disabilities being accompanied by 2 to 3 additional clients

The new guidelines on accessible tourism, produced by UN Tourism and our partners, set out how both destinations and businesses can harness the power of innovation and investment to boost accessibility in every way

Within the European Union, more that 70% of the 80 million persons with disabilities can afford to travel and enjoy tourism. In Asia and the Pacific, the potential market size is of 690 million people and in Latin America and Caribbean this figure reaches 85 million people.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: "Everybody should be able to enjoy tourism. At UN Tourism we have been advocating for accessibility for many years, and the benefits have never been clearer. The new guidelines on accessible tourism, produced by UN Tourism and our partners, set out how both destinations and businesses can harness the power of innovation and investment to boost accessibility in every way."

UN Tourism guidelines for accessible travel

Accessible tourism is game-changer for improving mid- and low-season performance; its customers are extremely varied and loyal; it creates jobs and significantly improves reputation of destinations and businesses welcoming all vistors, with or without disabilities.

To help destinations and businesses tap into this potential, UN Tourism and its partners have released six sets of guidelines Produced by UN Tourism, ONCE Foundation and Spanish Association for Standardization (UNE), in collaboration with the European Network for Accessible Tourism and many other partners.

The guidelines put the International ISO 21902:2021 Standard on Accessible Tourism in the spotlight and target:

• National tourism administrations and destination management organizations
• Accommodation, food & beverage and MICE companies
• Travel agencies and tour operators
• Transport sector
• Heritage sites and cultural institutions
• Organizations and companies working in protected nature areas

All these guidelines offer strategic and actionable recommendations to provide accessible tourism experiences, so every person can enjoy travel and tourism on equal terms. Accessibility put in place, brings improvements in comfort, service and the quality of life of visitors and host communities alike. The forthcoming Madrid International Tourism Fair FITUR 2025 will serve as a meeting point to discuss different ways of putting these recommendations in place.

A collaborative effort

UN Tourism thanks its 15 partners, namely: the European Accessibility Centre-AccessibleEU, European Network for Accessible Tourism (ENAT), Turismo de  Portugal, Ministerio de Turismo y Deportes de Argentina,  World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (WSHA), International Association of Executives & Hotel Managers (CIDH), ICOMOS-International Cultural Tourism Committee, IUCN-Tourism and Protected Areas Specialist Group, National Forest Corporation of Chile,  International Air Transport Association (IATA), International Union of Railways (IUC), Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (IUC), Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Sage Accessible Travel Solutions and Impulsa Igualdad-Tur4All.

Links to guidelines

• Download News Release on PDF
• Requirements and recommendations for public administrations and tourism destinations
• Requirements and recommendations for Accommodation, Food & Beverage and MICE companies
• Recommendations for key players in the transportation sector
• Recommendations for tour operators, travel agencies and travel agents
• Recommendations for cultural tourism key players
• Recommendations for managers of natural resources

Tourism and Sport: Creating a Lasting Legacy for Destinations at the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress

• All Regions
• 2 Dec 2024

Sports Tourism can play a key role in helping tourism destinations and businesses diversify. To achieve this, public and private cooperation will be essential for the future of this growing sector.

The 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress (WSTC) gathered worldwide experts and leaders of sports and tourism at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. Co-organized by UN Tourism and the Government of the Region of Madrid, with support of Visit Nayarit and Turkish Airlines, the Congress highlighted the transformative potential of sports tourism as a driver of economic growth, social development, and sustainability.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This Congress, as well as the whole line of activity on Sports Tourism developed by UN Tourism through the Affiliate Members and Public-Private Collaboration Department, represents the continuation of a path we embarked upon several years ago. The World Sports Tourism Congress was designed as a platform to exchange and generate knowledge, showcasing best practices, and fostering connections. Working together, we can make Sports Tourism a key driver of economic diversification for destinations worldwide.”

The World Sports Tourism Congress was designed as a platform to exchange and generate knowledge, showcasing best practices, and fostering connections

Mariano de Paco Serrano, Regional Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Sports, of the Region of Madrid, added that: "Madrid is a leading region and a point of attraction for all those who want to enjoy sports in a unique setting. In addition to its cultural, heritage, and leisure offerings, it provides a vast array of sports activities for a wide audience. Furthermore, the regional government is committed to improving the quality of life for its citizens through physical activity and sports."

Spotlight on Leadership and Inclusivity

The WSTC featured 40 speakers across 10 panels, addressing a variety of topics such as government strategies, sponsorship trends, best practices in sports tourism and sustainable, reinforcing its position as a unique platform for dialogue and the exchange of knowledge. The congress also featured conversations with inspiring sports figures, including Gilberto Godoy, UN Tourism Ambassador for Sports Tourism and volleyball Olympic medallist from Brazil; Gabriela Szabo, Romanian track and field Olympic medallist and former Minister of Youth and Sports; and Teresa Perales, swimmer, and 28-time Paralympic medallist. On this occasion, UN Tourism officially welcomed Perales among its Ambassadors for Sports Tourism, recognizing her as an example and symbol of perseverance given her important contributions to sports and the promotion of inclusivity in tourism.

Main Outcomes

The main outcomes arising from the discussions of the Congress focused on:

• Innovation: The need for investment in modern technologies to enrich visitor experiences and operational efficiency through VR, smart systems, augmented reality, smart venues, AI-driven personalized recommendations.
• Infrastructure: The value of multi-purpose, sustainable sports venues that promote year-round engagement. From eco-friendly constructions and operations to energy-efficient technologies- ensuring that sports venues align with global environmental goals and appeal to conscientious travelers.
• Impact of sports events: both mega or amateur, play a critical role in driving tourism, community engagement, and generating economic benefits at destinations.
• Collaboration: Building partnerships across governments, local communities, and sports entities to address shared challenges and maximize the sector's potential.

The venue of the event, Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, embodied the forward-thinking vision of Madrid as a global leader in sports tourism. In line with this, Madrid's infrastructures, and upcoming projects, such as the Ciudad Atlético initiative and NFL-hosted events, and the upcoming Formula 1 Circuit underscore the Region position as a destination where sports drive tourism, sustainability, and innovation.

Related links

• 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress
• 2nd World Sports Tourism Congress
• 1st World Sports Tourism Congress
• Affiliate Members
• UN Tourism’s Ambassadors for Sustainable Tourism

Innovation and Investments: Global Forum Links Key Pillars for Tourism’s Future

• All Regions
• 19 Nov 2024

The heightened importance of boosting investments and innovation was underscored as public and private sector leaders met to shape the future of the global tourism sector.

Further advancing UN Tourism’s leading role in these two key pillars of change, the Global Investment and Innovation Forum welcomed Ministers of Tourism, alongside key players from global finance and business. Alongside UN Tourism, the Forum was supported by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism of Colombia, ProColombia, Invest in Cartagena and CAF (the Investment Bank for Latin America and the Caribbean). Underscoring the high-level discussions was a recognition of the vital need to increase investment into the sector while at the same time injecting it with new ideas and energy through promoting innovation at every level.

Opening the Forum, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “There is both an urgency and an opportunity to build sustainable and inclusive destinations that support local economies, empower communities, and preserve their invaluable cultural heritage. This Forum makes clear the vital importance of connections: both between public and private sector players and also between countries, to increase and better direct investments into tourism, and to accelerate its digital transformation, with innovation at the heart of everything we do.”

This Forum makes clear the vital importance of connections: both between public and private sector players and also between countries, to increase and better direct investments into tourism, and to accelerate its digital transformation, with innovation at the heart of everything we do

In a show of high-level political support for UN Tourism’s work, Colombian President Gustavo Petro addressed the Forum. President Petro made clear the important role the sector is playing in diversifying the country’s economy while also advancing goals around sustainability. To further advance this potential, he said, “We not only need money, we need innovation and a lot of it. And innovation has to focus on the decarbonization of tourism activities, integrally. Colombia can replace its coal and oil currencies in large part with tourism, and we would move forward.”

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism of Colombia, Luis Carlos Reyes, said: “This 122nd Session of the Executive Council of UN Tourism was proof that as a country, we have the capacity to work together to carry out events of great magnitude. It has also been a very productive three days, in which we have shown the world our commitment to strengthening community-based, sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism. Tourism can be the central axis for the protection of nature, and we are pleased that the countries that are part of this Council share this purpose.”

UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona said: “More investments and greater innovation are essential to take tourism to the next level. They can unlock many new opportunities, for businesses, jobs and building more resilience and inclusivity. Colombia shines as a top example of how investment in tourism really delivers, not least for rural communities, for women, youth and post-conflict societies.”

Partnerships the key

UN Tourism serves as the bridge, connecting governments and destinations with investors of all sizes. In Cartagena, the Forum put the spotlight on such collaboration, with a Leaders’ Dialogue emphasizing the role partnerships can play in driving growth and transforming tourism. Joining Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Tourism of Bahrain, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Zambia,

The Forum also provided a platform for enhanced cooperation between global regions. High-level conversations focused on investment strategies for tourism, including the growing relevance of free zones, financial instruments and reformed governance as a means of increasing levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) into tourism, both in the Americas and globally.

Investing in Colombia, “Land of Beauty”

The hosts of the Forum, Colombia, stands out as a leading destination for tourism investments. Between 2018 and 2023, 1 billion US dollars were invested in tourism projects in Colombia. That has made Colombia the second-largest destination for tourism investments in the whole of the Latin American and Caribbean region. Furthermore, this strong level of investment has helped to created more than 4,700 jobs in the sector over the same period.

To better showcase the country’s significant potential on the global stage, UN Tourism officially presented its updated guidelines, "Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Colombia". They provide a comprehensive overview of investment infrastructure and systems in the country, outlining opportunities for growth as well as potential challenges and solutions for overcoming them. UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona said: “Colombia, the “Country of Beauty” is also a land of opportunity for investors. Its tourism sector is one of the strongest in the whole region, with new projects set to create many thousands more jobs and drive further economic growth.”

Also in Cartagena, the "Tourism Investment 2024: Global Greenfield Investment Trends in Tourism" report was launched, a joint collaboration between the FT and UN Tourism, which provides an unrivalled global picture of where the sector is going, including new areas of growth and opportunity for investors.

Innovation for the future of tourism

Alongside the huge importance of investments, the Forum made clear the key role that innovation will play in shaping the future of tourism, including through offering more inclusive and resilient growth. Highlighting the huge pool of talent across the Americas, UN Tourism celebrated the finalists of its Innovation in Green Projects Challenge, organized with CAF. The Challenge attracted ideas from more than 500 young entrepreneurs more than 20 countries from across Latin America and the Caribbean. Of them, more than 180 are based in Colombia. Natoure, from Mexico, which promotes innovation for nature conservation, was named as the winner.

Also looking to the future, a concluding panel on Innovation and Leadership, focused on the part future generations will play in transforming tourism, emphasizing the need to nurture young talent today through education, training and funding and networking opportunities.

Related links

• Download the News Release on PDF
• Investments Strategy

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UN Tourism Launches Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge

• All Regions
• 28 Nov 2024

UN Tourism is looking for start-ups and scale-ups that are revolutionizing the tourism sector through cutting-edge solutions.

The Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge will support projects that are leveraging digital technologies to enhance tourism, promote sustainability, and drive economic growth. Participants are encouraged to address digital transformation, sustainability, inclusivity, and digital governance across key areas, including branding and marketing; smart destinations and deep technologies; scalable education solutions; and efficiency in operations. Through these categories, the initiative seeks to foster innovation that elevates destination appeal, optimizes resource management, and creates intelligent, impactful tourism experiences.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “Innovation is a key driver of the future of tourism. This Challenge is a unique opportunity for creative minds to contribute to the sustainable and inclusive growth of the tourism sector. We are excited to see the innovative solutions that will emerge from this global initiative.”

This Challenge is a unique opportunity for creative minds to contribute to the sustainable and inclusive growth of the tourism sector

UN Tourism Executive Director, Natalia Bayona, adds: "AI is projected to add $15.7 to $19.9 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with generative AI alone adding $2.6 to $4.4 trillion annually. This is transformative power—AI is the future of tourism. The future of tourism is here, and it is intelligent, efficient, and sustainable".

The challenge counts on the support of major partners, including; SPARK, the Innovation Hub of Les Roches from the Sommet Education group, as well as Unicoin, the official cryptocurrency of Unicorn Hunters and Amadeus and its Venture Capital for technology companies.

Eligibility and Application Process

The Challenge is open to individuals, teams, and companies from across the globe. Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining their innovative solution, its potential impact on the tourism sector, and a plan for implementation. Proposals will be evaluated based on creativity, feasibility, and scalability. Candidates can apply until 31 March of 2025. Finalists will have the opportunity to present their pitches at the UN Tourism Demo Day: the UN Tourism Tech Adventures, by the end of 2025.

Winners will gain support to develop and implement their projects, receiving guidance from industry experts and leaders in digital innovation via a two-month incubation at the SPARK innovation sphere. In addition, they will have opportunities to showcase their projects at international tourism events and conferences, enhancing their global visibility, and gain access to an extensive network of tourism professionals and potential investors.

Participants interested in the challenge can find more information, explore additional benefits, and submit their applications through the official Challenge website.

UN Tourism and Innovation

Since 2018, UN Tourism has launched 32 startup innovation Challenges and Competitions, covering over 150 countries around the world. With over 20,000 participants and almost 400 top startups mapped with USD 2+ billion in funding, UN Tourism continues its efforts to support digitalization and innovation to advance the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Tourism is a tool for positive transformation and inclusive economic development.

Related links

• Download News Release on PDF
• UN Tourism Artificial Intelligence Challenge

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Madrid Sets the Stage for the 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress

• All Regions
• 27 Nov 2024

The 3^rd World Sports Tourism Congress (WSTC) will take place on 28-29 November at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain.

Organized by UN Tourism in collaboration with the Government of the Region of Madrid, with the support of Visit Nayarit and Turkish Airlines, the event will bring together leading voices from the world of Sports Tourism for two days of insightful discussions, innovative strategies, and knowledge exchange.

This year’s congress, held under the theme “Tourism and Sport Creating a Lasting Legacy for Destinations,” will transform Madrid into the global center of sports tourism. Attendees will include ministers, high-level officials, industry experts, key players and stakeholders as they explore the role of sports tourism in driving sustainable growth and development.

UN Tourism is proud to lead this dialogue in Madrid, a city and region at the forefront of sports tourism innovation. Together, we will advance the conversation on how this growing field can drive positive change

The WSTC will feature the participation of celebrated sports figures, including Gilberto Godoy, UN Tourism Ambassadors for Sports Tourism and volleyball Olympic medallist from Brazil, as well as Gabriela Szabo, Romanian track and field Olympic medallist and former Minister of Youth and Sports. The event will also feature insights from the Swimmer & Paralympic Medallist, Teresa Perales, ensuring diverse perspectives on the role of inclusivity and accessibility in sports tourism.

Key Themes and Discussions

The congress will showcase thematic panels focusing on integrating sports tourism into government agendas, optimizing sponsorship strategies, and creating lasting legacies beyond infrastructure. Among the topics to be explored are the economic impacts of sports tourism, destination branding, health and well-being connections, and best practices for hosting impactful sports events.

In the lead-up to the event, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: "This year’s congress highlights our commitment to leveraging sports tourism as a catalyst for sustainable development. By gathering leaders from both the public and private sectors, we aim to create synergies that will leave a lasting impact on destinations globally. UN Tourism is proud to lead this dialogue in Madrid, a city and region at the forefront of sports tourism innovation. Together, we will advance the conversation on how this growing field can drive positive change.”

Mariano de Paco Serrano, Councilor of Culture, Tourism, and Sports of the Government of the Region of Madrid, added: "The fact that we are celebrating the third edition of this sports tourism meeting signifies, among other things, that sports are fully integrated into our society and lives—not only as a physical activity and a means of conveying values but also as an important part of our leisure time. Traveling with the purpose of participating in or witnessing tournaments across a wide variety of disciplines links sports with the experience of discovering different cultures and ways of seeing and living life, which is enriching and broadens one's perspective. Hosting this event in the Region of Madrid is undoubtedly an excellent opportunity to showcase the region's full sporting, tourism, and cultural potential.”

One of the highlights of the congress will be the panel “Racing to the Top: Formula 1 Driving Tourism Destination Development”. Representatives from leading circuits and the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) will discuss the profound impact that hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix has on tourism, infrastructure, and global visibility. By sharing their experiences and insights, panelists will illustrate how the Formula 1 circuit serves as a powerful tool for tourism growth and city branding.

This discussion is especially relevant as Madrid recently signed a long-term agreement to host the Spanish Grand Prix from 2026, establishing a new circuit that will further elevate the city as a premier destination for sports tourism.

A Growing Global Platform

With this third edition, the congress has firmly established itself as the leading global platform for the exchange of ideas, generation of knowledge, and promotion of innovative projects in sports tourism.

With over 300 participants already confirmed, this year’s event will feature a diverse lineup of speakers and thought leaders. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in networking sessions, keynote addresses, and side events designed to foster collaboration and strengthen ties across both public and private sectors in sports tourism.

Related Links:

• Download News Release on PDF
• 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress
• 2nd World Sports Tourism Congress
• 1st World Sports Tourism Congress
• Affiliate Members
• UN Tourism’s Ambassadors for Sustainable Tourism

UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism debuts in the Middle East hosted by Bahrain

• All Regions
• 19 Nov 2024

The Middle East played host to the World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for the first time, with Bahrain welcoming policymakers, industry experts, and renowned chefs to focus on sustainability and community empowerment.

The 9th edition of the UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism (Manama, 18-19 November) was held under the theme of “Gastronomy Tourism: A Driver of Economic Diversification and Inclusion”. Co-organized by the Basque Culinary Center and hosted by the Ministry of Tourism of Bahrain, the Forum welcomed 500 delegates from 50 countries, marking a milestone in showcasing the region's unique culinary traditions.

On the occasion, Her Excellency Ms. Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Bahrain, stated: “It is with great pride that we welcome the 9th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism to the Kingdom of Bahrain, a landmark event that underscores our dedication to becoming a leading hub for gastronomy tourism in the Middle East. This forum presents a unique opportunity to engage with international experts and thought leaders, allowing us to share insights and best practices that drive sustainable growth within the gastronomy sector. As we explore innovative approaches to enhance our culinary offerings, we remain committed to fostering economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. Together, let us seize this opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and shape the future of gastronomy tourism for the benefit of all.”

Gastronomy tourism is a powerful tool for economic diversification and community empowerment, especially in regions like the Middle East, where culinary traditions are a unique strength.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili underscored gastronomy tourism’s transformative potential in his opening address: “Gastronomy tourism is a powerful tool for economic diversification and community empowerment, especially in regions like the Middle East, where culinary traditions are a unique strength. By advancing policies that promote inclusivity and sustainability, we can unlock its full potential.”
Basque Culinary Center’s Director General, Joxe Mari Aizega, stated: "In this edition of the World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, held for the first time in the Middle East, we have a unique opportunity to highlight how gastronomy tourism can be a powerful catalyst for economic diversification and social inclusion. In an increasingly globalized world, respecting local culinary authenticity and diversity becomes a key driver in creating sustainable destinations. Now is time to promote initiatives that support economic growth and strengthen the social structure, regional cohesion, and commitment to environmental sustainability, turning gastronomy into a bridge that connects cultures and fosters equitable development.”

A Ministerial Dialogue featured high-level representatives from across the globe, including H.E. Ms. Fatima J. Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism of Bahrain; H.E. Ms. Christina Garcia Frasco, Tourism Secretary of the Republic of the Philippines; and H.E. Mr. Sultan AlMusallam, Deputy Minister of International Affairs of the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Discussions emphasized policies that ensure the benefits of gastronomy tourism reach local communities while contributing to economic diversification and the competitiveness of the destination.

A panel on "Positioning Arab Gastronomy in the World" explored how Arab cuisine can serve as a cultural diplomacy tool. Representatives from Jordan, Kuwait, and Qatar shared strategies for leveraging Arab culinary traditions to strengthen cultural connections and elevate global recognition of the region's rich heritage. Another panel discussion on culinary identity explored how gastronomy can shape global perceptions and strengthen destination branding.

Top chefs lead the conversation

The Forum featured presentations and discussions by globally renowned chefs, including Chef Sergio Torres from Spain’s 3-Michelin-starred restaurant Cocina Hermanos Torres, Chef Deepanker Khosla (Thailand) - winner of the Sustainable Restaurant Award at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, Chef Alejandra Espinoza from Ecuador, and Bahraini chefs Nader Qannati and Abdel Hameed. Tim Brooke-Webb, Managing Director of The World’s 50 Best, also joined the Forum to share insights on how gastronomy rankings influence tourism and drive culinary innovation globally.

The event celebrated the appointment of new UN Ambassadors for Gastronomy Tourism, including 2-Michelin-starred Chef Diego Guerrero (Spain), 1-Michelin-starred Chef Rudolf Štefan (Croatia), and Chef Tala Bashmi (Bahrain).

Celebrating innovation and sustainability

Sustainability was also at the center of discussion at the forum, with sessions and masterclasses addressing food waste reduction, circular economy, and local sourcing. Discussions highlighted how adopting sustainable practices in gastronomy tourism not only reduces environmental impact but also drives inclusive growth and enhances destination resilience.

Innovation was another of the key focus, with Meta presenting future trends in gastronomy tourism and hosting a masterclass on how social media and technology are reshaping the sector.

The Final Pitch Challenge of the 4th UN Tourism Gastronomy Tourism Startup Competition spotlighted the creative potential of inspiring entrepreneurs. Startups presented transformative ideas to shape policy, improve practices, and engage communities through sustainable and scalable initiatives. The jury selected Agrojusto (Argentina) as the winner, recognizing its significant contribution to the future of gastronomy tourism.

In a special announcement, the Basque Culinary Center, in collaboration with UN Tourism, launched three scholarships for its Online Course in Gastronomy Tourism Experience Design, starting in March 2025. These scholarships aim to enhance access to specialized training for professionals in the gastronomy tourism sector. Applications are open until 19 December 2024.

Related links

• Download the News Release on PDF
• 9th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism
• Scholarships for the Online Course in Gastronomy Tourism Experience Design (BCC)
• Global Roadmap for Food Waste Reduction in the Tourism Sector

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Tourism Makes History at COP29 as 50 Countries Back Climate Action Declaration for Sector

• All Regions
• 22 Nov 2024

More than 50 countries have endorsed a landmark proposal for Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism.

For the first time in the history of the summit, COP29 featured a Tourism Day, with a First Ministerial Meeting dedicated to positioning tourism policy to support national climate goals. In Baku, public and private sector leaders recognized the significant impact of climate change on the tourism sector and its contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.  At the same time, they emphasized tourism's potential to actively foster climate adaptation and regeneration strategies. Over 700 stakeholders participated in the Tourism Day events.

Governments united around climate action in tourism

The First Ministerial was chaired by Mr Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and included the COP29 President H.E. Mr Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan, UN Tourism, UNEP and UNFCCC.

At COP29, the global tourism sector made clear its commitment to positive transformation for a better future for our planet

Both UN Tourism Secretary–General, Mr Zurab Pololikashvili, and UNEP Executive Director, Ms Inger Andersen, underlined the need for a science-based approach, referring to advanced new research to be further adapted from the University of Queensland (an Affiliate Member of UN Tourism) indicating that tourism represents 8.8% of global emissions (including direct and indirect emissions).

Addressing delegates, Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: "For the first time, the Action Agenda of the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties has included tourism. The First Ministerial Meeting on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism marks a turning point, when ambition meets action, and vision transforms into commitment. At COP29, the global tourism sector made clear its commitment to positive transformation for a better future for our planet."

The Ministerial welcomed ten Ministers of Tourism: Azerbaijan, United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Belarus, Czech Republic, Iran, Montenegro, North Macedonia; and Environment:  Costa Rica and Maldives, five Deputy Ministers (Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, Tanzania, Türkiye, Uzbekistan) and the Special Envoy for the Climate Heritage Network and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Cultural Heritage, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Secretaries of State from Moldova, Portugal, Zambia and Zimbabwe and delegates from  Indonesia, Malaysia, Oman, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan and United States of America were also present . The Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Pacific Tourism Organization delivered statements on behalf of their members (Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Fiji, Nauru, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu). The World Travel and Tourism Council and the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance also took the floor and the International Transport Forum (OECD) shared a statement.

On the back of the high-level discussions, 52 governments signed the COP29 Declaration for  Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism. The up-to-date list of endorsers is available here.

Measurement, Decarbonization, Adaptation, Regeneration, Finance, Innovation

The High-Level Roundtables brought together experts from academia, policymakers and private sector to raise the climate ambition of the tourism sector. The UN Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism  was presented by UN Tourism Executive Director Zoritsa Urosevic as key tool for advancing the sector's climate action ambitions. Climate Finance Innovation was also covered in a keynote presentation.

Carbon measurement was discussed at four levels: globally, to understand the scale of the challenge; at the country level, to inform tourism policies and align them with climate goals; at the business level, to ensure accountability for change; and at the product labelling level, empowering consumers to make informed, sustainable choices. While scaling up measurement efforts offers opportunities for evidence-based action, experts highlighted challenges such as the limits of technology-driven improvements, the need for innovative business models, and the critical role of behaviour change.

Discussions on adaptation and regeneration emphasized tourism's potential to foster climate adaptation and regeneration strategies, underscoring the need for scalable financing mechanisms, innovative financial instruments, and collaborative approaches. Interventions and educational strategies that support sustainability transitions were showcased. All in all, several examples of innovation and collaboration illustrated how decarbonization can be linked to funding, adaptation strategies can be grounded in science, and climate action plans can serve as a foundation for change.

New signatories of the Glasgow Declaration Initiative

The Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism (an initiative within the framework of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme) continues to advance with more than 370 action plans already developed by its 900 signatories. Key Takeaways from the Glasgow Declaration Implementation Report 2024 were released at COP29 including:

• 74% of signatories with climate plans are measuring
• 92% of plans include decarbonization actions
• 73% of plans include actions related to biodiversity protection
• 41% of plans include climate adaptation actions
• 29% of plans refer to climate justice
• 82% of signatories with plans report working in partnership with others
• 44% of plans refer finance actions with this pathway remaining a challenge

During COP29, the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan and Minor International signed the Glasgow Declaration and a further 58 new signatories were announced, including Destination Canada, the Department for Tourism in Samarkand Region (Uzbekistan), HOTREC (The European Association of Hotels, Restaurants and Cafés), among others.

Towards climate-resilient tourism development

With the aim of laying the foundations for a global coordination mechanism and partnership platform, UN Tourism and the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan signed the Letter of Intent to create a framework for its establishment. The partnership will ensure the continuation of the process to COP30 in Belem, Brazil in 2025, and building on COP28 - as well as to support the transformation of the tourism sector so it can be part of a low-carbon, sustainable and resilient future.

Related Links

• Download News Release on PDF
• Climate Action | Transforming tourism for climate action
• UN Climate Change COP29 Thematic Day on Tourism
• COP29 Presidency Spotlights Tourism, Transport, and Urbanisation | Day Ten - Urbanisation / Transport / Tourism Day
• COP29 Green Zone Hosts Session on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism

Find images here:

• 20 November 2024 - High-Level Meeting on Enhanced Action in Tourism | Flickr
• UN Climate Change COP29 Thematic Day on Tourism | Flickr
• 20 November 2024 - Raising the Climate Ambition of the Tourism Sector – from commitments to implementation | Flickr
• 20 November 2024 - Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism Innovative solutions and way forward | Flickr

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