Costa Rica secures presidency of the UN Tourism & Sustainability Committee

For the first time, Costa Rica has secured the presidency of the Tourism and Sustainability Committee of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism). This presidency will last for the next four years.

William Rodríguez, Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, said: “This is a momentous moment for Costa Rica and carries with it enormous responsibility. We are honoured to have been entrusted with the chair of the Tourism and Sustainability Committee of UN Tourism.” 

“Costa Rica has long been a world leader in sustainable tourism, and we are eager to contribute to international efforts to advance sustainability practices within the tourism sector.”

At the 18th meeting of the Tourism and Sustainability Committee of UN Tourism, Minister Rodríguez defended Costa Rica’s candidacy in a presentation where he highlighted the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism, demonstrated through a proven track record and comprehensive initiatives.

The Minister of Tourism also referred to Costa Rica’s global recognition, which includes prestigious awards for dedication to environmental sustainability, as well as the country’s collaborative approach at the world forum of nations.

“This victory consolidates Costa Rica’s status as a leader in sustainable tourism worldwide,” added Minister Rodríguez. 

“Costa Rica is prepared to take advantage of this victory to promote collaboration and innovation for the benefit of the global tourism industry from the Tourism and Sustainability Committee.”

Areas of work of the Committee on Tourism and Sustainability (CTS).  
The areas of work of the Committee on Tourism and Sustainability aim at:

• advancing the sustainable development and management of tourism, and
• focusing especially on the generation of social, economic and cultural benefits at tourism destinations, while minimizing the negative impacts upon the natural or socio-cultural environments.

Costa Rica is committed to advancing a collaborative agenda within the framework of UN Tourism, prioritizing sustainability needs and challenges shared by all member nations. Our approach centers on addressing specific, actionable topics that can significantly amplify efforts to face the climate emergency. We firmly place people at the core of this initiative, recognizing tourism as a fundamentally social activity.

Costa Rica emerged victorious from a close competition against formidable contenders, Croatia and Egypt. The country claims its proven commitment to sustainable tourism, along with innovative initiatives and global recognition, positioned it as the ideal candidate to lead the Tourism and Sustainability Committee.

Costa Rica will be presenting its sustainable tourism offer at ITB Berlin from 5-7 March 2024 in hall 22.

Hall 22 / Stand 200

Header photo: Ministro COSTA RICA FITUR 2024
© Alfonso Esteban – STB Estudio