The responsible restart of tourism is now underway across Europe. The United Nations World Tourism Organization believes that it’s crucial to support Member States and the wider tourism sector as it adapts and transitions towards a more resilient and sustainable future.
In July, a UNWTO delegation visited the Canary Islands to push forward this initiative. By inviting members of the media, private sector leaders and political leaders to join for the official visit, UNWTO was able to show that tourism’s return can be managed safely and responsibly. UNWTO believes that it is possible to prioritize health while safeguarding jobs and promoting economic recovery.
The restart of tourism can help get the global community back on track as we work together to fulfill the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The UNWTO Sustainable Development Goals Startup Competition, which was launched this week, will identify new ideas with the power and potential to re-imagine tourism and enhance the sector’s positive impact on people and planet.
“I urge all entrepreneurs and innovators to step up and take part,” said UNWTO Secretary- General, Zurab Pololikashvili. “Only through embracing the new can we emerge from this crisis stronger, more resilient and better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead, including addressing inequality and climate action.
In July, Pololikashvili was honored to join His Majesty King Felipe VI, alongside the Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and guests including the Director-General of the World Health Organization Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary-General of NATO, as well as other national and international political leaders at a special event to commemorate all those who have lost their lives to Covid-19.
The event represented an opportunity to express our appreciation to the health workers who worked – and continue to work – on the front line of this public health emergency.
