SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 26, 2024 - UN Tourism has significantly expanded its global network with the addition of 27 new Affiliate Members, representing a diverse range of organizations from 16 countries across all regions. This brings the total number of Affiliate Members to 505, solidifying UN Tourism's commitment to fostering collaboration and promoting responsible tourism practices worldwide.
A Diverse and Growing Network
The new Affiliate Members represent a wide array of profiles, including destination management organizations (DMOs), private sector companies, associations, NGOs, universities, and more. This diverse membership base strengthens UN Tourism's ability to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities facing the global tourism industry.
"The incorporation of such a valuable and solid group of new Affiliate Members reflects our commitment to amplifying and fostering a high-quality and geographically diverse global network of affiliated entities within the global tourism ecosystem, now comprising 505 entities," said Ion Vilcu, UN Tourism Director of the Affiliate Members and Public-Private Collaboration Department. "Strengthening connections across both public and private sectors is essential for building a more inclusive and responsible tourism sector."
New Members from Around the World
The 27 new Affiliate Members hail from all corners of the globe, including:
- Africa: Gambia Tourism and Hospitality Institute, Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe, ICL Tours and Travels LLC, World Tourism Alliance, Zanzibar Association of Tourism Investors Ltd.
- Americas: ABAV - Brazilian Association of Travel Agencies, Buró de Congresos y Visitantes de Aguascalientes, Consejo Federal de Inversiones, Corporación Turismo Cartagena de Indias, Fideicomiso de Promoción Turística del Estado de Nayarit, Levantur S.A., University of South Florida School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, UNWTO.
- Asia and the Pacific: China Tourism Group Corporation Limited, Kuoni Global Travel Services (Schweiz) AG.
- Europe: Enjoytravel Corporate SL, Escuela Universitaria de Hotelería y Turismo de Sant Pol de Mar (Barcelona), International Masters Games Association, Navarra Impulsa Cultura, Deporte y Ocio S.L., TORNUS Agencia Creativa de Turismo, Universidad Ean.
- Middle East: Association of travel & tourism agents in Iraq, Association Régionale de l'Industrie Hôtelière Marrakech-Safi, Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Department, Observatoire du Tourisme du Maroc, Rocket DMC International - FZCO, Royal Jordanian RJ, Saudi Tourism Authority.
Expanding the Reach of Sustainable Tourism
The expansion of UN Tourism's Affiliate Membership program reflects the growing importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing in promoting sustainable tourism practices. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, UN Tourism aims to foster innovation, enhance destination management, and ensure the long-term resilience of the tourism sector.
A Collaborative Approach to Tourism Development
UN Tourism's Affiliate Members play a crucial role in supporting the organization's mission to promote sustainable and responsible tourism development. They contribute to a wide range of initiatives, including research, education, capacity building, and advocacy.
Through its expanded network of Affiliate Members, UN Tourism is well-positioned to address the challenges and opportunities facing the global tourism industry, working together to create a more sustainable and inclusive future for tourism.