When it comes to tourism, there are various laws and regulations that govern the industry. These laws are put in place to ensure the safety and security of tourists, as well as to protect the natural and cultural resources of the destinations they visit. In this article, we will explore the various sources of tourism law.
International Conventions and Treaties
One of the primary sources of tourism law is international conventions and treaties. These agreements are made between countries to establish common standards and regulations for the tourism industry. Examples of such agreements include:
- The Convention on International Civil Aviation (1944)
- The Convention on Road Traffic (1968)
- The International Convention for the Protection of Tourists (1970)
- The World Tourism Organization’s Global Code of Ethics for Tourism (1999)
National Laws and Regulations
Each country has its own set of laws and regulations that govern the tourism industry. These laws cover a wide range of issues, including licensing requirements for tour operators, health and safety regulations for hotels and restaurants, environmental protection measures, and more. Some countries also have specific laws in place to protect cultural heritage sites or natural areas.
Examples of National Laws:
- The Tourism Act (1995) in South Africa
- The Tourism Promotion Law (2007) in Japan
- The Tourism Regulation Act (2006) in Kenya
- The Sustainable Tourism Development Act (2017) in Nepal
Industry-Specific Guidelines and Standards
In addition to international conventions, treaties, national laws, and regulations, there are also industry-specific guidelines and standards that apply to certain segments of the tourism industry. These guidelines and standards are developed by industry associations or organizations to ensure that their members follow best practices and provide high-quality services to their customers.
Examples of Industry-Specific Guidelines and Standards:
- The Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria (2013) developed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council
- The Guidelines for Tour Operators on the Sexual Exploitation of Children (2011) developed by ECPAT International
- The Hotel Energy Solutions toolkit (2012) developed by the United Nations Environment Programme
Conclusion
In conclusion, tourism law is a complex and multifaceted topic that involves various sources of regulation at the international, national, and industry-specific levels. It is important for all stakeholders in the tourism industry to be aware of these laws and regulations and to comply with them in order to ensure the sustainability and success of the industry.