United Nations SG issues message for World Tourism Day; urges responsible travelling

He further stressed that every traveller could act as an ambassador for peace by engaging respectfully with local populations and celebrating both diversity and shared humanity. As the world celebrates tourism, Guterres urged responsible travel that builds bridges and promotes mutual respect among cultures and nations.

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has issued a powerful message for World Tourism Day, which this year centers on the theme “Tourism and Peace.” Guterres emphasised that tourism has the potential to bring people together, transform communities, and foster inclusion, all while promoting peace. In his statement, he noted, “Sustainable tourism can transform communities – creating jobs, fostering inclusion, and strengthening local economies. By valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, it can help reduce tensions and nurture peaceful coexistence.”

Guterres highlighted the role of tourism in promoting economic interdependence between neighboring countries, encouraging cooperation and peaceful development. He further stressed that every traveller could act as an ambassador for peace by engaging respectfully with local populations and celebrating both diversity and shared humanity. As the world celebrates tourism, Guterres urged responsible travel that builds bridges and promotes mutual respect among cultures and nations. “Together, we can harness the power of tourism to advance peace and prosperity for all,” he stated.

World Tourism Day, first celebrated in 1980, marks the anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, now UN Tourism) in 1975. The day underscores tourism’s critical role in global socio-economic development, cross-cultural exchange, and economic growth. This year, the theme “Tourism and Peace” encourages a reflection on how travel can serve as a force for peace, understanding, and sustainability.

The World Committee on Tourism Ethics (WCTE) has welcomed the decision to focus on “Tourism and Peace” in 2024, recognising its significance in a world that is increasingly divided by conflict. The Committee reaffirmed the importance of tourism as a catalyst for peace, mutual understanding, and friendship among people globally. Citing Guterres’ statement, the Committee emphasized that “building peace is a conscious, bold, and even radical act” and called for global efforts to support peace negotiations in conflict-affected destinations. Guided by the UN Tourism Global Code of Ethics, the Committee urged adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter to advance peace through tourism initiatives.