UN Tourism Urges #InvestInWomen for Equality

As the globe commemorates International Women’s Day on March 8, UN Tourism is amplifying its call to “invest in women” to expedite progress towards gender parity within the tourism sector.

Despite notable achievements by women in tourism, disparities persist as they are disproportionately underrepresented in leadership roles, encounter hurdles in career advancement, and face constraints in accessing education and training opportunities.

This year’s focal point, encapsulated by the theme #InvestInWomen, underscores the imperative for substantial investments to bridge the anticipated annual deficit of USD 360 billion in funding. This funding shortfall poses a significant obstacle to realizing the overarching gender equality objectives outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 5 – aimed at attaining gender equality and empowering all women and girls.

The potential dividends of heightened investment in women are substantial. Studies indicate that narrowing gender disparities could augment GDP per capita by 20% and generate nearly 300 million employment opportunities in the global economy by 2035.

Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, underscores the significance of International Women’s Day as an occasion to assess progress and emphasize the substantial investment required to achieve gender parity within the tourism domain. He asserts, “While certain countries have begun to reap the benefits of prior investments, additional commitments are imperative to unlock fresh prospects for economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and sustainable advancement.”

In the lead-up to International Women’s Day, UN Tourism conducted a series of webinars across diverse global regions, rallying governments, businesses, civil society entities, and individuals to undertake tangible measures in bolstering investments in women and fostering gender equality within the tourism sector. These actionable steps encompass:

• Enforcing policies and initiatives conducive to gender equality and women’s empowerment within the tourism sphere, encompassing equitable remuneration, educational access, training avenues, and leadership prospects.
• Extending support to women-owned businesses, enterprises, and initiatives embedded within the tourism value chain.
• Cultivating partnerships and fostering collaboration to propel gender equality and women’s empowerment in tourism, spanning local, national, and international scopes.

Source: unwto.org