The United Nations (UN’s) Global Tourism Resilience Day (GTRD) is observed annually on February 17 across the globe to highlight the critical need to build resilience in the tourism industry. This day draws attention to the sector’s vulnerability to various crises and emergencies and emphasizes the importance of preparedness and adaptability.
- 17 February 2025 marks the observance of the 3rd GTRD.
Note: Tourism plays a vital role in advancing the 3 key pillars of sustainable development: fostering economic growth, reducing poverty, and promoting environmental protection, contributing to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Background:
i.On February 6, 2023, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted resolution A/RES/77/269, officially designating February 17 as GTRD.
- The first-ever GTRD was observed on February 17, 2023
ii.This annual observance aims to highlight the importance of building resilience within the tourism industry to better handle disruptions and challenges.
Significance of GTRD:
i.National Strategies for Rehabilitation: GTRD urges Member States to create national strategies for recovery after disruptions.
- It aims to involve private-public partnerships and the diversification of activities and tourism products.
ii.Global Participation: The UNGA calls upon Member States, UN entities, international organizations, and individuals to observe GTRD
- It should align with global, regional, and national priorities, focusing on sustainable tourism awareness through educational activities.
iii.Sustainable Tourism: During its 77th session, the UNGA instructed the Secretary-General (SG) to collaborate with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and other UN entities.
- The goal is to present a report on sustainable tourism, emphasizing ecotourism to address poverty and protect the environment.
iv.UNWTO: The UNWTO is a specialized agency of the UN and a key international organization in the tourism sector.
- It plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism that supports global development and environmental sustainability.
Significance of Tourism:
i.Economic Importance: Tourism is a vital economic driver for many nations, particularly in developing regions, contribute to income generation, foreign exchange, employment, and tax revenues.
ii.Local Impact: Supports local businesses and stimulates community development in connecting people with nature, fostering environmental responsibility.
iii.Sustainable Development: Sustainable tourism, especially ecotourism, is critical in advancing the SDGs and drives economic growth, reduces poverty, creates jobs, and supports local cultures and ecosystems.
iv.Social Benefits: Promotes responsible consumer behavior and sustainable resource use and empowers marginalized communities, including indigenous groups, women, and youth.
Global Tourism Recovery in 2023 and 2024 Outlook:
i.According to the 1st UNWTO World Tourism Barometer of 2024, international tourism receipts reached USD 1.4 trillion in 2023, about 93% of 2019 (USD 1.5 trillion) earnings.
ii.Total export revenues are estimated at USD 1.6 trillion, almost 95% of 2019 (USD 1.7 trillion).
iii.In 2023, international tourism rebounded strongly, reaching 88% of pre-pandemic levels, with 1.3 billion international arrivals.
iv.By the end of 2024, the sector is expected to fully recover, driven by pent-up demand, better air connectivity, and a stronger return of Asian markets.
Regional Performances 2024:
Middle East: Surpassed pre-pandemic levels with arrivals 22% higher than 2019.
Europe: Reached 94% of 2019 levels, supported by intra-regional and United States of America (USA) travel.
Africa: Recovered 96% of pre-pandemic visitors.
USA: Achieved 90% recovery.
Asia and Pacific: Reached 65%, with South Asia (SA) recovering 87% and North-East Asia (NEA) 55%.
Economic Impact 2024:
i.Tourism sector contributed 3% to global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), indicating a strong recovery in 2023.
ii.After a robust recovery in 2023, international tourism is projected to return to pre-pandemic levels by 2024, with early estimates indicating a 2% growth in international tourist arrivals compared to 2019.
About United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO):
Secretary-General (SG)– Zurab Pololikashvili
Headquarters– Madrid, Spain
Established – 1975
