What is the importance of world tourism day? Follow

World Tourism Day (WTD) was started in the year 1980 by The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Every year, it is celebrated worldwide on September 27.  Tourism Industry is generating and has become one of the most important sources of income for many countries. It makes more revenue and jobs. Also, foreign currencies are essential for any country and tourism is one of the primary sources to increase foreign currency. For many regions, especially developing countries tourism industry is one of the most critical sources of welfare. 

The primary purpose of WTD is to create awareness about the importance of tourism among the masses. Tourism plays a significant role in the development of a country’s economy and this day addresses global challenges highlighted by the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). 

World Tourism Day Theme and Celebrations

Every year, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly selects a theme to mark the celebrations of WTD. The issues are based on the recommendations of the UNWTO Executive Council. The whole team of UNWTO invites people of different backgrounds and age groups to take part in the celebrations of the World Tourism Day. The UNWTO General Assembly also selects a host country every year which acts as a partner for the holidays of this day. It was during the 1997 session in Istanbul, Turkey when UNWTO decided to designate a host country to mark the celebration of WTD. 

Do you know why this particular date was selected and designated as World Tourism Day? This is because on 27th September in the year 1970 the Statuses of UNWTO were adopted. 

The significance of World Tourism Day

• To create awareness about the importance of tourism worldwide.
• To create awareness about how travel and tourism, directly and indirectly, contribute to the economy of a region or a nation.
• Essential for the development of people culturally, socially, and economically.
• Contributes to Sustainable Development

Different countries all over the world depend upon tourism industry for its economic development and World Tourism Day creates a unique opportunity for the countries to highlight and raise awareness of tourism. 

It is celebrated worldwide in different ways. On this particular day, museums, amusement parks, and various other cultural sites give free entry to attract and encourage tourism. A few cultural sites also reduce the charges of the entry ticket to contribute to tourism.