World Tourism Day 2024 (27th September), Theme & History

World Tourism Day 2024

World Tourism Day is internationally recognized on September 27th. This annual occasion is dedicated to the promotion of tourism across the globe. Its primary purpose is to raise awareness about the significance of tourism and to encourage its growth. This day seeks to instill an appreciation for the pleasures of exploring and experiencing different parts of the world. This event holds great importance in fostering a deeper understanding of the value of tourism.

World Tourism Day Theme 2024

As of today, the theme for World Tourism Day 2024 has not been announced yet.

World Tourism Day 2023 Theme

In 2023, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) chose the theme “Tourism and Green Investments.” This theme underscores the importance of directing increased and well-directed investments toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which serve as the UN’s blueprint for a better world by 2030. The focus was on embracing new and innovative solutions, moving beyond conventional investments, to support and reinforce economic growth and productivity while also promoting sustainability.

History of World Tourism Day

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) established World Tourism Day during a meeting held in Spain. It marked the first celebration of this observance in 1980. The chosen date, September 27th, coincides with a significant moment in the history of tourism: the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes on September 27, 1970.

Furthermore, during its 70th session in 2015, the United Nations General Assembly designated 2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development (resolution A/RES/70/193). This initiative aimed to promote and accelerate sustainable development, particularly poverty eradication, by endorsing and supporting sustainable tourism as a crucial means to achieve these goals.

Significance of World Tourism Day

Tourism stands as one of the most vital economic sectors globally, with the power to employ one in every ten individuals on our planet and sustain the livelihoods of countless others. In certain nations, it can contribute to more than 20 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

This industry allows people to immerse themselves in the cultural and natural wonders of the world, fostering connections among individuals and highlighting our shared humanity.

Tourism holds a crucial role within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, aligning with our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly goals 8, 12, and 14. It serves as a primary gateway to the world of employment, particularly for women, youth, migrant workers, and rural populations in developing and least developed countries (LDCs). A significant portion of the tourism workforce comprises women, and nearly half of these workers are under 25 years old. Furthermore, in numerous regions worldwide, the protection of biodiversity and conservation heavily relies on the tourism sector and the revenue it generates.

27th September 2024 Special Day

On September 27, 2024, we globally celebrate World Tourism Day, dedicated to promoting tourism on an international scale. This annual occasion serves as a platform to raise awareness about the pivotal role tourism plays in fostering cultural exchange, economic development, and global understanding. Let’s embrace the spirit of exploration, recognizing the transformative impact of travel in uniting diverse communities and contributing to the shared growth and prosperity of nations around the world.


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