This is a specialized agency of the United Nations and an international leader in the field of tourism. It is also a world forum to debate different issues regarding tourism policies and a useful source of specialized knowledge. The UNWTO plays an important and decisive role in the promotion and development of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism, by giving special attention to the interests of the developing countries.
The organization promotes the application of the Code of Ethics for Tourism, in order to guarantee that member states, tourist destinations and companies maximize the economic, social and cultural effects of tourism and take advantage of the benefits, reducing the negative social and environmental impacts.
Among the members, there are 154 countries, 7 territories and more than 400 Affiliated Members representing private sectors, educational institutions, tourism associations and local tourism authorities.
UNWTO is committed to the Millennium Development Goals of the United Nations and is focused on poverty reduction and fostering sustainable development.
