122nd UN Tourism Executive Council in Cartagena de Indias: A Meeting for the Future of Tourism

Cartagena de Indias, the jewel of Colombia and Latin America, will host the 122nd edition of the UN Tourism Executive Council from 13 to 15 November. The event will mark an important moment for the global tourism industry, bringing together ministers, experts and industry leaders from 35 countries to discuss the challenges of sustainable tourism, innovation and investment. At Visit Latin America, based in Cartagena, we will be keeping a close eye on this event, which promises to highlight the efforts and growing role of Colombia and Latin America in the industry.

A unique opportunity for Colombian tourism

Holding this prestigious council meeting in Colombia illustrates the country’s aspiration to position itself as a leading tourist destination.

“As host country, Colombia will focus on topics such as community tourism, ecotourism and environmentally responsible tourism initiatives that we are implementing in the country. This is an opportunity for Colombia, the Land of Beauty, to continue to position itself as a leading destination for its public policies focused on sustainable tourism”, said Luis Carlos Reyes, Colombia’s Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism.

Events and Flagship Initiatives

The Council will be highlighting a number of initiatives that are crucial to the future of tourism in Colombia. Firstly, the final of the Community Tourism Innovation Challenge aims to encourage the sustainable growth of this sector in Colombia. This project, supported by the Colombian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism, UN Tourism and Fontur (National Tourism Fund), saw 22 initiatives selected from 500 projects to present their ideas for empowering local communities and preserving their cultural heritage.

In addition, the ‘Best Tourism Villages’ awards ceremony will recognise exemplary villages where tourism has helped to preserve cultural traditions and protect biodiversity, while supporting the development of local communities. This global project highlights rural destinations that demonstrate a strong commitment to responsible tourism.

Finally, a World Forum on Investment and Innovation in Tourism will bring together experts to examine the impact of foreign direct investment on tourism development. The forum will also see the launch of the “Tourism Investment Guide” a tool designed to attract capital and strengthen infrastructures in key destinations. This event represents an opportunity for Latin American countries toincrease their attractiveness to tourists by promoting ethical investment practices.

A Sustainable and Inclusive Vision for the Future

Through these events, Colombia is placing sustainability, inclusion and cultural preservation at the heart of its tourism strategy. This model promotes tourism that builds on cultural and natural wealth, while strengthening links between visitors and communities. Cartagena de Indias, with its beauty and history, is the ideal setting for this vision of tourism that promotes exchanges and respect for the environment.

The 122nd edition of the UN Tourism Executive Council in Cartagena de Indias is of vital importance, not only for Colombia and Latin America, but also for the global tourism industry. In a context where sustainable tourism and innovation are key priorities, this event is a unique opportunity to rethink current practices and integrate new approaches, with the region as one of the driving forces.

By tackling crucial issues such as community tourism, sustainable investment and environmental conservation, the Cartagena Council is positioning itself as a crossroads for strategic thinking. It marks a decisive step towards shaping a resilient and inclusive tourism sector, not only in Latin America but throughout the world, inspiring international players to join forces to build a tourism that is meaningful and balanced.