Global tourism and coronavirus / Covid-19: issues and challenges

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is the United Nations institution responsible for promoting responsible, ethical, sustainable and universally accessible tourism.
However, the current coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic has strongly challenged the principles of mobility and free movement of travelers, thus having a strong impact on international tourism.

In a statement issued on 01 April 2020, UNWTO highlighted several important elements for the future of global tourism and campaigned to include tourism as a priority in future recovery efforts.

Between issues and challenges, it is certain that the coronavirus /Covid-19 epidemic already inviting us to thoroughly review our vision of international tourism.

The impact of coronavirus / Covid-19 on global tourism

Tourism is currently one of the most affected sectors and UNWTO has revised its 2020 forecast for international arrivals and receipts, though emphasizes that such any predictions are likely to be further revised.

Against a backdrop of travel restrictions being introduced, UNWTO underscores the importance of international dialogue and cooperation and emphasizes the COVID-19 challenge also represents an opportunity to show how solidarity can go beyond borders.

The tourism sector, like no other economic activity with social impact, is based on interaction amongst people. UNWTO has been guiding the tourism sector’s response on several levels:

• by cooperating closely with the World Health Organization (WHO), the lead UN agency for the management of this outbreak;
• by ensuring with WHO that health measures are implemented in ways that minimize unnecessary impact on international travel and trade;
• by standing in solidarity with affected countries; and
• by emphasizing tourism’s proven resilience and by standing ready to support recovery.

Supporting the recovery

Small and medium sized enterprises (which make up around 80% of the tourism sector) are expected to be particularly impacted. This might affect millions of livelihoods across the world, including vulnerable communities who rely on tourism as a vehicle to spur their development and economic inclusion.

Due to its cross-cutting economic nature and deep social footprint, tourism is uniquely positioned to help societies and communities affected return to growth and stability. Over the years, the sector has consistently proven its resilience and its ability not only to bounce back as a sector but to lead the wider economic and social recovery (here in Latin America and particularly in Ecuador, we can attest to this). This depends on adequate political support and recognition.

Against this backdrop, UNWTO calls for:

• financial and political support for recovery measures targeting the tourism sector in the most affected countries;
• recovery measures and incentives to be planned and implemented in coordination with international development and donor organizations; and
• tourism support to be included in the wider recovery plans and actions of affected economies.

As in the past, UNWTO will provide guidance and support for recovery measures of its members, the private and public tourism sector, including organizers of tourism events and fairs.

Promoting solidarity

UNWTO is observing the introduction of restrictions on travel. Where these are introduced, they must be based on the latest expert recommendations and have public health concerns as a main concern.

Within this context, UNWTO has stressed the importance of international dialogue and cooperation. This shared challenge also presents the global community, including the tourism sector, to work more closely together and show that solidarity can go beyond national borders.

So, what is your opinion on the future of post-coronavirus/Covid-19 international tourism, especially for Latin America and Ecuador?

Do not hesitate to contact our advisers for further information about your trip in Ecuador and the coronavirus.

Source: https://unwto/org