United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism), the global tourism body in charge of tourism, is set to mark this year’s World Tourism Day (WTD) in Tbilisi Georgia. The theme for this year is ‘Tourism and Peace.’
The World Tourism Day is observed globally to create awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political, and economic value. It aims to raise awareness of the importance of the tourism sector and its impact on our society, and to underline the efforts the tourism industry is making to achieve sustainable development goals. This year, WTD focuses on peace.
The Secretary General of UN Tourism, Mr. Polo…spoke on this year’s theme: “Happy World Tourism Day. As we mark the World Tourism day, our planet is ravaged by and insecurity. Around one in four of the global population lives in areas of conflict. Many of us have a firsthand experience of the suffering posed by war, and the impacts are felt far outside the war zones. We must urgently stand up for peace.
The global tourism family is broad and too diverse, and diverse. But for unites us is our shared humanity. Ours is the most human sector. Every journey leads to connection. Tourism brings the world together. It lays the foundation for cooperation.”
Also speaking on the 2024 WTD, the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres,, said: “We reflect on the profound connection between tourism and peace.
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.
“Tourism can also promote economic interdependence between neighbours, encouraging cooperation and peaceful development.
“At the same time, tourism broadens horizons. Every traveller can be an ambassador, engaging respectfully with local populations, recognizing our diversity and shared humanity, and the values that unite us all.
As we celebrate tourism, let us travel responsibly, build bridges, and promote mutual respect among cultures and nations.”
Nigeria will mark the WTD in Abuja, the nation’s capital.