Tourism has been one of the hardest-hit industries by the ongoing global pandemic, with travel restrictions and lockdowns severely impacting the sector. In an effort to kickstart the recovery of tourism in Europe, members of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) have rallied together to adopt an agenda that aims to pioneer a global recovery.
The agenda, titled “Agenda for Europe: Restarting Tourism in Europe – Rebuilding for the Future,” was adopted during the 113th session of the UNWTO Executive Council. It outlines a series of measures and actions to support the recovery of the tourism sector in Europe, which has been particularly hard hit by the pandemic.
One of the key focuses of the agenda is on promoting sustainability and resilience in the tourism sector. This includes encouraging sustainable tourism practices, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and prioritizing the health and safety of tourists and workers in the industry.
The agenda also calls for increased collaboration and cooperation between countries in Europe to facilitate the safe and responsible reopening of borders and the resumption of international travel. This includes harmonizing health and safety protocols, implementing digital solutions for travel management, and supporting the development of travel corridors between countries.
In addition, the agenda emphasizes the importance of innovation and digitalization in the tourism sector. This includes promoting the use of technology to enhance the visitor experience, improve destination management, and support sustainable tourism practices.
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted the importance of the agenda in driving the recovery of the tourism sector in Europe and beyond. He stated, “The Agenda for Europe shows how UNWTO is working to support every Member State in Europe. By sharing best practices and promoting innovation, the agenda will help the continent emerge stronger from the pandemic and lead global tourism’s restart.”
The adoption of the agenda for Europe by UNWTO members is a positive step towards rebuilding the tourism sector in the region and paving the way for a global recovery. By prioritizing sustainability, collaboration, and innovation, the agenda aims to ensure that the tourism sector emerges from the pandemic stronger and more resilient than before.
