World Tourism Day is observed globally on September 27, highlighting the travel industry’s social, economic, political, and cultural significance. World Tourism Day 2021 has the theme ‘Tourism for Inclusive Growth’.
The tourism sector is one of the significant sectors globally, employing millions of people. According to United Nations (UN), the tourism sector employs one in every ten people on Earth, and for some countries, it can represent over 20 per cent of their GDP.
The tourism sector, however, has been facing a significant crisis due to the Covid 19 pandemic. As the travel restrictions are being eased, the theme focuses on the importance of inclusive recovery and ensuring that no one is left behind.
World Tourism Day also highlights the importance of the travel industry in preserving and promoting culture and heritage. The official website of UN said, “UNWTO ensures every part of the sector has a say in its future – including communities, minorities, youth and those who would otherwise be at risk of being left behind.”
The history of World Tourism Day had first observed in 1980. On September 27, 1970, the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) statutes were adopted. Later in 1975, these paved the way for the establishment of the UNWTO. Thus, the UNWTO celebrated the first World Tourism Day on September 27, 1980, to mark the occasion of its establishment.
Many have taken to social media to share their wishes on World Tourism Day.
