Tourists exploring the stunning landscapes of the Falkland Islands joined millions worldwide in celebrating World Tourism Day on Friday. Under the theme “More and Better Investment for People, Planet, and Prosperity,” this global event spotlighted the vital role of tourism in fostering economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social prosperity. Since 1980, World Tourism Day has been marked by special events at key travel destinations worldwide, promoting tourism’s value across multiple sectors.

As one of the world’s most significant economic drivers, tourism accounts for 9% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). For many countries, tourism is an even larger part of their economy, contributing up to 20% of GDP. This industry encompasses over 260 million jobs worldwide, supporting employment in hotels, restaurants, airlines, and travel services. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has recognized tourism as a crucial entry point into the job market, particularly for women, youth, and migrant workers, especially in developing countries.

Tourism’s integral role in the global economy is further emphasized in the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Tourism promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment opportunities, and responsible consumption patterns while focusing on conserving oceans, seas, and marine resources. As part of this agenda, the tourism sector is encouraged to prioritize sustainability, helping protect the planet while supporting prosperity for all.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) established World Tourism Day on September 27, starting in 1980, during a meeting in Torremolinos, Spain. This date was selected to commemorate the adoption of the UNWTO’s Statutes in 1970, with the aim of raising awareness among the global community about tourism’s social, cultural, political, and economic importance. Late September also coincides with the close of the summer season in the northern hemisphere, a fitting time to celebrate travel and leisure.

The evolution of leisure travel has been remarkable—rising from just 25 million international trips in 1950 to over 1.3 billion today. Several key factors have driven this growth, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which recognized the right to vacation for all workers, improved labor conditions, the expansion of the global middle class, more affordable air travel, and advancements in technology like the internet, making travel more accessible to all.

In 2017, the UNWTO designated it the “International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.” This initiative aimed to deepen global understanding of cultural diversity and heritage while raising awareness of tourism’s role in promoting peace and mutual respect among civilizations.

With tourism continuing to shape the global economy, World Tourism Day is a reminder of the industry’s potential to contribute to sustainable development, creating a positive impact on both people and the planet.

The post World Tourism Day 2024: Promoting Sustainable Growth and Global Economic Impact in the Falkland Islands appeared first on Travel And Tour World.