27th September is observed as World Tourism Day by the United Nations. The aim of this day is “to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value.”
Why is it celebrated on 27th September?
This day is commemorated on 27th September to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) statutes on this same day in 1970.
Theme for 2019 World Tourism Day
The theme for the World Tourism Day for 2019 is ‘Tourism and Jobs: a better future for all’. Tourism is one of the major sources of employment. According to the UNWTO, about 10 per cent of the jobs in the world is created by the tourism sector.
This theme seeks to underscore the importance of the tourism industry in creating jobs and improving the economy. It seeks to maximize the potential of this sector in creating more jobs and integrate the advancements in technology into this sector.
Why is tourism important?
Tourism, undoubtedly, is one of the most crucial and fastest-growing sectors of the economy. According to the United Nations, international tourism revenues earned across the world have grown manifold from 2 billion US dollars in 1950 to 1260 trillion in 2015. This sector also contributes around 10 per cent of the GDP of the world.
Despite the challenges of economic recessions and natural calamities, this sector is only expected to grow and it is estimated that this sector will grow at a rate of 3 per cent annually till 2030.
The World Tourism Day is celebrated to promote this day and highlight the importance of this sector.
