International tourism hits one billion – UNWTO

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One billion tourists have travelled the world in 2012, marking a new record for international tourism, according to the UN World Tourism Organization –UNWTO.

On the symbolic arrival date of the one-billionth tourist (13 December 2012), UNWTO revealed the actions tourists can take to ensure their trips benefit the people and places they visit, as voted by the public.

Secretary-General f the UN World Tourism Organization Taleb Rifai says reaching one billion international travelers is a very important landmark

“ One billion international travelers is definitely a reason to celebrate. For stakeholders, for the private sector, for nations, for governments, for countries to celebrate, but with this celebration comes great responsibility. One billion travelers means a big impact on the world, environment, on the society and on the economy. Therefore, the message is very simple – one billion travelers, one billion opportunities and definitely greater responsibilities. ”

International tourism has continued to grow in 2012, despite global economic uncertainty.

The figure cements tourism's position as one of the world's largest economic sectors, accounting for 9% of global GDP (direct, indirect and induced impact), one in every 12 jobs and up to 8% of the total exports of the world's Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Rifai says the agency sees it as an increased responsibility and as an opportunity for us to contribute to a better world, cleaner environment, healthier society and a richer culture.

Donn Bobb, United Nations.

Duration: 1’39″