The COVID-19 pandemic has had a massive social and economic impact. Both developed and developing economies have been hit. And marginalized groups and the most vulnerable have been hit hardest of all. The restart of tourism will help kick start recovery and growth. It is essential that the benefits this will bring are enjoyed widely and fairly.
UNWTO has therefore designated World Tourism Day 2021 as a day to focus on Tourism for Inclusive Growth. This is an opportunity to look beyond tourism statistics and acknowledge that, behind every number, there is a person. UNWTO invites its Member States, as well as non-members, sister UN agencies, businesses and individuals to celebrate tourism’s unique ability to ensure that nobody is left behind as the world begins to open up again and look to the future.
World Tourism Day, celebrated each year on 27 September, is the global observance day fostering awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political and economic value and the contribution that the sector can make towards reaching the Sustainable Development Goals.
Before the emergence of Covid-19, Pakistan was getting closer to its goals in the pursuit of sustainable tourism development. Foreign tourists were visiting the country and writing well about their individual experiences. International organizations and magazines were placing Pakistan in one of the best tourism friendly countries. Covid-19 hit Pakistan the moment when it was making remarkable progress in the field of tourism. The Covid-19 outbreak not only stopped the ongoing progress but also created hindrances for future growth. Most of the people in Pakistan left the tourism industry for other financial resources and diverted to other professions permanently. Now, when the things are settling down and masses are getting vaccinated, this industry needs proper attention and support by the government and private stakeholders.
So, here in Pakistan, it becomes our responsibility to support the idea of inclusive growth incorporating multiple commercial initiatives in the field of tourism hospitality and tourism. Only working on the new possibilities can put us back on the right track and get us a recovered and growing tourism industry in Pakistan.
