By Risolat Makhsimova
The resolution “2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Livable Tourism” adopted by the UN General Assembly on the initiative of Uzbekistan has caused great interest among the general public, experts, analytical circles, specialized agencies of the UN, and international organizations.
In particular, the international news agency “BNN Breaking” assessed the adoption of this document as “an important event in the world tourism sector.” It was emphasized that the declaration of 2027 by the UN as the International Year of Sustainable and Livable Tourism was an important step in recognizing and addressing the complex problems facing the tourism industry. The resolution encourages collaboration and innovations to create a more sustainable, livable, and inclusive tourism sector, providing clear directions for the future.
“The International Year of Sustainable and Livable Tourism offers a unique opportunity to strive for a harmonious balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social justice, redefining the impact of the industry on our planet and its inhabitants,” states the conclusion of the article distributed by “BNN Breaking.”
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) emphasized that the declaration of 2027 as the International Year is a clear recognition of the role of tourism in building a better world for all. “It is an opportunity to work together to ensure that tourism is diverse and capable of effectively overcoming any difficulties,” stated the organization’s release.
UNWTO also expressed sincere gratitude to Uzbekistan and the other 80+ co-authors of the document for their initiative and support of the resolution.
According to an article published on the portal of the FAO’s Mountain Partnership, if mountain tourism is managed sustainably, it can increase the incomes of local communities and help preserve their natural resources and culture.
In this regard, the International Year of Sustainable and Livable Tourism represents a unique opportunity for all countries, the UN system, and other structures to actively engage in promoting tourism at all levels, including in mountainous regions, and accelerate sustainable development.
Representatives of the tourism industry (tourist associations, companies, tour operators) have warmly received the initiative of Uzbekistan.
The large network of tourism companies specializing in sustainable tourism development, “GUAVA,” highly rated the adoption of the General Assembly resolution. Gabriel Tan, the agency’s head, emphasized the significant contribution of the tourism sector to the global GDP and its role in employing over 300 million people worldwide. He noted that the industry is key to achieving SDG goals and that efforts to transform the tourism sector are crucial.
“GUAVA Net-Zero” confirmed its readiness, along with its global strategic partners within the ecosystem, to implement the resolution and support international efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals through tourism.
Professor Willy Legrand of the International University of Applied Sciences, author of numerous lectures on sustainability in the hotel business, warmly congratulated the adoption of this important resolution, highlighting its significance for academics and students of educational institutions.
“This news truly serves as a strong impetus for legitimizing the tasks that university graduates will have to undertake in the future, while recognizing the key role of the tourism industry in ensuring sustainable development,” he said.
According to the General Assembly resolution, the coordination and implementation tasks for the International Year of Sustainable and Livable Tourism are assigned to UNWTO, which in turn will develop strategic plans and roadmaps outlining specific tasks for the International Year.
The adoption of relevant documents by UNWTO for the implementation of this resolution is expected. Additionally, large global and regional forums and thematic events will be organized in connection with the International Year, extensive information campaigns will be conducted in leading media outlets, various projects and programs aimed at increasing awareness of the world community and enhancing the capacity of tourism industry institutions will be implemented, and scientific publications dedicated to revealing the advantages of tourism in ensuring socio-economic and ecological prosperity will be published.
Based on the results of the work carried out at the national, regional, and global levels, UNWTO will present a detailed report to the General Assembly in 2028.
