World Tourism Day
Since 1980, the United Nations World Tourism Organization has celebrated World Tourism Day as international observances on September 27. This date was chosen as on that day in 1970, the Statutes of the UNWTO were adopted. The adoption of these Statutes is considered a milestone in global tourism. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness on the role of tourism within the international community and to demonstrate how it affects social, cultural, political and economic values worldwide.
Over the past half century, tourism has been one of the fastest growing and most important industries in the world. For some countries, tourism has even become the main source of income for the state budget. At the beginning of the 21st century, the tourism industry has shown resilience and growth despite challenges such as the global economic recession, natural disasters and epidemics. In addition, the advent of new tourism-related technologies and the lowering of transportation costs have led to an increase in international tourism. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry has become one of the most affected sectors of the economy in many countries.
However, travel restrictions and a sudden drop in consumer demand have led to an unprecedented decline in international tourism figures. This in turn had a detrimental effect on the entire economy and led to job losses. In developing countries, tourism has a strong impact on the country’s economy, society and environment. In addition to the socio-economic impacts of tourism, if managed sustainably, the industry can contribute to environmental conservation and cultural recognition and understanding among nations.
Sahetmyrat BABAYEV,
1st year student of the
Faculty of International Law of the
Institute of International Relations
of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan