SHERIDAN, WYOMING – NOVEMBER 19, 2024 – The UN Tourism Executive Council convened in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, for its 122nd session, bringing together representatives from 47 countries and key stakeholders to shape the future of the tourism sector. With global tourism nearing a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels, the council focused on strategies to drive innovation and investment in the industry.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili commended Colombia's commitment to tourism development, highlighting its role in fostering positive change.
"Colombia has chosen to invest in tourism, not in weapons or war, and as the only country to have hosted every major UN Tourism event, including two General Assemblies, it is a testament to the power of tourism as a force for change."
Key Priorities for a Thriving Tourism Sector
The Executive Council focused on three key priorities to ensure a resilient and sustainable tourism sector:
- Innovation: UN Tourism has spearheaded innovation through initiatives like its Challenges and Competitions, which identify and support groundbreaking ideas and emerging talent. The council meeting also featured the announcement of the winners for the Green Projects Challenge and the Community Tourism Challenge.
- Investment: UN Tourism presented its "Tourism Doing Business Guidelines: Investing in Colombia," part of a series focused on investment opportunities in specific destinations. The meeting concluded with a landmark Global Forum on Investment and Innovation.
- Education: The council reviewed UN Tourism's initiatives in promoting tourism education and training, including the rollout of its Education Toolkit for high schools, the success of its Online Academy, and the expansion of its global network of International Academies.
Strengthening Partnerships and Recognizing Excellence
The Executive Council also emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnerships. A dedicated networking session for UN Tourism Affiliate Members focused on sustainable tourism development, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals.
During the session, UN Tourism also revealed the latest additions to its "Best Tourism Villages" network, recognizing 55 rural destinations for their outstanding work in leveraging tourism to create local opportunities while preserving their natural and cultural heritage.
Looking Ahead
The UN Tourism Executive Council's 122nd session provided a roadmap for the future of the tourism sector, emphasizing innovation, investment, and education as key drivers of sustainable growth and development.