Tourism Organizations and Government Role

Tourism Organizations

• Tourism organizations are established to promote tourism in a constructive way with minimal negative impact on the economy, environment, and society.

Levels of Tourism Organization

• There are three major categories of tourism organizations:
  • International tourism organization
  • Regional tourism organization
  • National tourism organization

International Tourism Organization

• World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
  • The United Nations agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism.
  • Promotes tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability.
  • Encourages the implementation of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.
  • Committed to promoting tourism as an instrument in achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
  • Generates market knowledge, promotes competitive and sustainable tourism policies and instruments.
  • Fosters tourism education and training.
  • Works to make tourism an effective tool for development through technical assistance projects in over 100 countries.
  • Has 155 country members, 6 Associate Members, and over 400 Affiliate Members representing the private sector, educational institutions, tourism associations, and local tourism authorities.

World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC)

• A forum for business leaders in the Travel & Tourism industry.
• Works to raise awareness of Travel & Tourism as one of the world's largest industries, supporting 260 million jobs and generating 9% of world GDP.
• Advocates partnership between the public and private sectors, delivering results that match the needs of economies, local and regional authorities, and local communities with those of business.
• Based on:
  • Governments recognizing Travel & Tourism as a top priority.
  • Business balancing economics with people, culture, and environment.
  • A shared pursuit of long-term growth and prosperity.
• Regularly sets Strategic Priorities to identify issues that impede the operation or development of the sector.
• Known for:
  • High-quality and authoritative research into the facts about Travel & Tourism and the issues affecting the sector.
  • Ability to harness the knowledge and experience of Council Members, who are prominent executives in the industry.
  • Willingness to collaborate with other leading industry bodies.