Tourism is a vital industry that has a significant impact on the global economy. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), international tourist arrivals surpassed 1.4 billion in 2018, and this number is expected to continue growing in the coming years.
As the tourism industry continues to expand, it becomes increasingly important for countries to work together and collaborate on issues related to tourism. In this article, we will explore some of the international organizations related to tourism.
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
The UNWTO is the United Nations agency responsible for promoting sustainable and responsible tourism around the world. It was founded in 1975 and has its headquarters in Madrid, Spain. The organization works closely with governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to ensure that tourism contributes positively to social, economic, and environmental development.
The UNWTO provides leadership and support for tourism policies and practices that promote sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as poverty reduction, job creation, gender equality, and environmental protection. The organization also conducts research and analysis on global tourism trends and provides technical assistance to its member states.
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
The IATA is a trade association representing airlines worldwide. It was founded in 1945 with its headquarters in Montreal, Canada. The organization plays a significant role in regulating air transport services globally by setting standards for safety, security, efficiency, and sustainability.
The IATA collaborates with governments and other organizations on issues related to air transport policies such as visa requirements, airport infrastructure development, aviation security protocols, among others. The association also provides training for aviation professionals through its global training centers.
World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
The WTTC is a forum that brings together CEOs of leading travel companies worldwide. It was founded in 1990 with its headquarters in London, UK. The organization aims to promote the private sector’s role in tourism development and advocacy for policies that support sustainable tourism growth.
The WTTC provides research and analysis on global tourism trends, conducts economic impact assessments of tourism on host countries, and advocates for policies that support travel and tourism. The council also organizes events that provide a platform for industry leaders to discuss issues affecting the travel and tourism sector.
Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)
PATA is a non-profit membership association representing travel and tourism stakeholders in the Asia Pacific region. It was founded in 1951 with its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand. The organization aims to promote responsible tourism development by providing leadership and advocacy for sustainable practices.
PATA provides research and analysis on travel trends in the Asia Pacific region, fosters business connections between members, promotes responsible tourism practices, and advocates for policies that support sustainable development. The association also offers training programs for industry professionals through its PATAcademy initiative.
Conclusion
In conclusion, international organizations play a critical role in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism worldwide. These organizations provide leadership, advocacy, research, technical assistance, and training to their members while collaborating with governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to ensure that tourism contributes positively to social, economic, and environmental development goals. By working together towards common objectives, we can create a more sustainable future for the travel and tourism industry.