The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) hosted its first-ever Global Ministerial Forum on Tourism and Rural Development in Almería, Spain, from December 2-3, 2020. The event brought together Ministers, leaders, and policymakers from approximately 40 countries, alongside representatives from international organizations and the private sector. The primary outcome of the forum was the endorsement of the landmark "Declaration on Tourism and Rural Development."
The Declaration outlines a comprehensive roadmap for action, designed to harness tourism’s potential as a driver for rural development, recovery, and resilience. It emphasizes the importance of closer coordination between tourism policies and rural development strategies to generate opportunities, protect cultural and natural heritage, and mitigate depopulation. The document identifies key policy priorities for governments and stakeholders, structured around four core pillars: promoting governance and partnerships, fostering education and skills, advancing smart, green, and inclusive tourism, and creating decent jobs and opportunities for all.
Discussions and Key Initiatives
Throughout the forum, participants engaged in discussions centered on leveraging tourism for sustainable growth in rural areas. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of domestic tourism and the appeal of rural destinations, underscoring the urgent need to support these areas. Ministers stressed the importance of innovation, technology, and digitalization in making tourism more accessible and beneficial for rural communities. Investment and funding were identified as crucial elements for implementing effective rural tourism strategies.
The forum also emphasized supporting vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth, in rural tourism initiatives. The potential of sustainable gastronomy tourism was acknowledged for its role in creating value chains and promoting local products. A significant initiative launched during the forum was the "Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO," aimed at recognizing villages that are exceptional examples of rural tourism development.
Ministerial Commitments
The event saw active participation from key figures, including Reyes Maroto, Spain’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism, who highlighted tourism’s role in promoting the richness of Spain’s territories and driving economic recovery. Javier A. García, President of the Provincial Council of Almería, emphasized the province’s commitment to sustainable tourism models. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili underscored the need for governments and the private sector to collaborate, invest in people, and empower communities to build a more resilient and sustainable tourism sector for rural areas. The forum established a unified commitment to place rural development at the forefront of the tourism agenda.
Key Points
- Approximately 40 countries participated in the forum.
- The Declaration on Tourism and Rural Development is structured around four key pillars.
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