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Like every year, 27. September it is celebrated all over the world World Tourism Day, a date dedicated to raising awareness of the economic, cultural, social and political importance of tourism. This year, the focus is on the theme "Tourism and sustainable transformation", with the message that tourism can be a powerful driver of positive change, but only if it is accompanied by effective management, strategic planning and responsible investments.
World Tourism Day has been celebrated since 1980, and the date was chosen because it coincides with the adoption of the Statute of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1970. Official celebrations are held each year in different regions of the world, with a theme that corresponds to current global challenges.
Sustainable transformation as an imperative
Tourism is now more than just an economic sector; it is a catalyst for social progress and a tool for education, employment and the creation of new opportunities. However, to become truly transformative, it needs to:
- invest in education and skills, especially young people and women,
- support micro, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs through digitization and innovation,
- to direct investments towards sustainability, resilience and long-term benefits for communities,
- protect natural resources through reducing emissions, preserving biodiversity and investing in resilient infrastructure.
According to UN Tourism, between 2019 and 2024 alone, the sector attracted more than 2300 greenfield projects worth USD 126 billion. However, future investments must be smarter, greener and more socially responsible.
Global message for 2025
This year's theme reminds us that tourism has the potential to become a platform for systematic and sustainable transformationIt not only fosters economic growth, but also peace, equality and the resilience of communities.
"Tourism provides education, employment and new opportunities for all. To unleash these benefits, a thoughtful and inclusive approach is necessary, which places sustainability and social equity at the heart of development and decision-making.", says UN Tourism.
Croatia in the rhythm of World Tourism Day
In Croatia, World Tourism Day is also being celebrated throughout the country through numerous events, free programs and promotional campaigns that bring the values of tourism and sustainable development closer to tourists and the local population. This initiative is also an opportunity for domestic destination management organizations, the tourism sector and local communities to promote even more strongly responsible and sustainable development of Croatian tourism.
