If you are interested in the global tourism industry, you might be curious about the number of members in the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The UNWTO is an important organization that plays a crucial role in promoting responsible, sustainable, and accessible tourism around the world. In this article, we will explore how many members are in the World Tourism Organization and what that means for the industry.
What is the World Tourism Organization?
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is a specialized agency under the United Nations (UN) that promotes responsible and sustainable tourism around the world. It was founded in 1975 and has been working towards its mission to promote tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability ever since. The UNWTO has 159 member countries as well as 6 territories and over 500 affiliate members representing private companies, educational institutions, tourism associations, and local tourism authorities.
How Many Member Countries are There in UNWTO?
As mentioned earlier, there are currently 159 member countries of UNWTO. These countries work together to promote sustainable and responsible tourism practices around the world. Some of these member countries include popular tourist destinations such as Spain, France, Italy, Japan, Australia, Brazil, South Africa among others.
Who Can Be a Member of UNWTO?
Any country that is recognized by at least one member state of the United Nations can become a member of UNWTO. Additionally, any territory or area that is not self-governing but is recognized by at least one UN member state can also become an associate member of UNWTO. The organization also accepts affiliate members from various sectors such as private companies involved in tourism services or products; educational institutions offering courses related to tourism; non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working towards sustainable tourism practices; and tourism associations or local tourism authorities.
What Are the Benefits of Membership in UNWTO?
Membership in UNWTO provides several benefits to countries and organizations. For example, members can participate in the organization’s General Assembly, a platform where they can discuss global tourism issues, share best practices, and make decisions regarding the future direction of the industry.
Members can also benefit from UNWTO’s technical assistance and capacity building programs designed to enhance sustainable tourism development. The organization also provides research and data analysis related to the industry that can help members make informed decisions. Additionally, members have access to training opportunities for their tourism industry professionals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are currently 159 member countries and 6 territories of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The organization plays a crucial role in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices around the world.
By working together through UNWTO, member countries can collaborate towards achieving common goals such as economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability. Becoming a member of UNWTO provides several benefits such as access to technical assistance programs, training opportunities for tourism professionals, research and data analysis related to the industry among others.