✈️ Shaikha Al Nowais — Secretary-General of UN Tourism

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[{"title": "International tourism holds steady with 0.4% growth in first half of 2026 as Middle East conflict and rising costs weigh on momentum", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "International tourism holds steady with 0.4% growth in first half of 2026 as Middle East conflict and rising costs weigh on momentum International tourism grew modestly in the first half of 2026, with global arrivals up by 0.4% even as insecurity in the Middle East, elevated oil prices, and broader inflationary pressures tested the sector’s resilience. UN Tourism September 17, 2026", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/news/international-tourism-holds-steady-with-04-growth-in-first-half-of-2026-as-middle-east-conflict-and-rising-costs-weigh-on-momentum", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-09-17", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-09-17T10:00:00+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "Opening Ceremony - International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "Opening Ceremony - International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 UN Tourism September 03, 2026 Calender Text Opening Ceremony IYSRT2027 Region All Regions IYSRT Provisional Programme Information Note Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date November 27, 2026 Image Dept COMM Dept. Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public Registration Link https://app.untourism.int/", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/opening-ceremony-international-year-of-sustainable-and-resilient-tourism-2027", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-09-03", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-09-03T10:10:40+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}, {"title": "Opening Ceremony - International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "Opening Ceremony - International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 UN Tourism September 03, 2026 Calender Text Opening Ceremony IYSRT2027 Region All Regions IYSRT Provisional Programme Information Note Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date November 27, 2026 Image Dept COMM Dept. Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public Registration Link https://app.untourism.int/", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/opening-ceremony-international-year-of-sustainable-and-resilient-tourism-2027", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-09-03T10:10:40+00:00", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Source publication timestamp", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-09-03T10:10:40+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-19T07:17:30+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa spuch July 07, 2026 Calender Text 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa Region Africa Regional Gastronomy Events UN Tourism and the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone will organize the 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, on 2-4 December 2026 in Lungi, Republic of Sierra Leone. Building on the success of the previous editions, held in Zimbabwe in 2024 and Tanzania in 2025, this 3rd edition will further explore regional and national strategies, showcase inspiring experiences and the richness of African gastronomy, and identify concrete actions that strengthen Africa’s competitiveness in the global tourism landscape. Destinations and international experts will be convened to explore the transformative potential of gastronomy tourism, through knowledge exchange and the sharing of best practices, with the aim to harness the power of gastronomy tourism for the benefit of local communities and the environment, fostering regional cohesion and resilience. Wednesday, 2 December 2026 Venue: Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre (JMBICC) (Lungi) 15:00-17:00 Workshop I - Linking Cultural Heritage and Creative Industries to Gastronomy Tourism Development. This workshop will explore how cultural heritage and the creative industries—from crafts, design and music to storytelling, festivals and the performing arts—can enrich gastronomy tourism experiences, strengthen destinations identity and create new opportunities for local communities and creative entrepreneurs. 15:00-17:00 Workshop II - From Local Flavours to Global Destinations: How Intellectual Property Can Strengthen African Gastronomy Tourism. This workshop will deep dive into how geographical indications, brands and other intellectual property tools can strengthen African destinations, empower producers and create authentic visitor experiences. N.B. : Coffee service will be provided throughout the sessions. The technical workshops are accessible BY INVITATION ONLY to local and international participants duly accredited and appointed by their respective Member States or the organizations/entities they represent. The working language of the workshops is ENGLISH . TBC Welcome Cocktail (for international delegates) Thursday, 3 December 2026 Venue: Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre (JMBICC) (Lungi) Interpretation: English / French 11:00-11:15 Presentation of the UN Tourism Agenda for African Gastronomy Tourism 11:15-12:30 High-Level Panel – From Policy to Impact: Advancing Gastronomy Tourism in Africa This session will bring together policymakers and leaders to examine current policy frameworks and strategic approaches, and to discuss future action-oriented pathways that strengthen the impact of gastronomy tourism across Africa. 12:30-14:00 LUNCH & Live Cooking Demonstrations 14:00-14:15 Workshop Takeaways: From Discussion to Action Brief reflections from the Workshops held on the previous day, highlighting key insights, opportunities and proposed actions. 14:15-15:00 Panel Discussion: Empowering Women Through Gastronomy This panel will explore women’s indispensable roles across the gastronomy tourism value chain – from food production and processing to preparation and service provision – highlighting their central contribution to economic and social sustainable development. Yet, despite this contribution, over 70 percent of women-led businesses in Africa have insufficient access to financial services, and many operate in the informal sector, where they lack legal protection as well as access to training and market information. Coinciding with FAO’s launch of the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, the discussion will combine inspiring stories with practical, actionable solutions to address systemic barriers facing women, including access to land, finance, technologies, education, and participation in decision-making. 15:00-15:30 Creativity, the Heart of African Gastronomy This conversation will explore how culture, gastronomy and creativity shape destinations and position African cities as attractive, distinctive places to live, visit, and invest in. The discussion will highlight how gastronomy, cultural heritage, and local identity contribute to sustainable development and how these can be leveraged to brand tourism destinations, overcome persistent perceptual barriers and shift the narrative around the African continent. 15:30-16:30 Panel Discussion: Agritourism, A Gateway to Tourism, Culture and Agrifood Systems This panel will explore how agritourism experiences are created, packaged, and marketed to create tangible benefits for rural communities. In response to growing demand for authentic and immersive travel experiences, the discussion will examine how agrifood activities, traditional knowledge, and cultural practices can be transformed into sustainable and engaging gastronomy tourism products. Drawing on practical examples from across Africa and beyond, the panel will highlight how agritourism models support local producers, strengthen agrifood value chains, diversify rural economies, and generate income—while safeguarding cultural heritage and natural resources. 16:30-16:45 Conclusions 16:45-17:00 Closing Ceremony 19:30-21:30 Gala Dinner (for international delegates) Friday, 4 December 2026 09:00-20:00 Technical Tours Full-day programme for international delegates Historic, Leisure and Nature tours Beach Entertainment Street Food Tasting Festival Related links Gastronomy and Wine Tourism Provisional Programme - PDF General Information Note Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date December 04, 2026 Image Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public Registration Link https://app.untourism.int/", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/3-un-tourism-regional-forum-on-gastronomy-tourism-for-africa", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-07-07", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-07-07T13:13:16+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}, {"title": "3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa spuch July 07, 2026 Calender Text 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa Region Africa Regional Gastronomy Events UN Tourism and the Government of the Republic of Sierra Leone will organize the 3rd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, on 2-4 December 2026 in Lungi, Republic of Sierra Leone. Building on the success of the previous editions, held in Zimbabwe in 2024 and Tanzania in 2025, this 3rd edition will further explore regional and national strategies, showcase inspiring experiences and the richness of African gastronomy, and identify concrete actions that strengthen Africa’s competitiveness in the global tourism landscape. Destinations and international experts will be convened to explore the transformative potential of gastronomy tourism, through knowledge exchange and the sharing of best practices, with the aim to harness the power of gastronomy tourism for the benefit of local communities and the environment, fostering regional cohesion and resilience. Wednesday, 2 December 2026 Venue: Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre (JMBICC) (Lungi) 15:00-17:00 Workshop I - Linking Cultural Heritage and Creative Industries to Gastronomy Tourism Development. This workshop will explore how cultural heritage and the creative industries—from crafts, design and music to storytelling, festivals and the performing arts—can enrich gastronomy tourism experiences, strengthen destinations identity and create new opportunities for local communities and creative entrepreneurs. 15:00-17:00 Workshop II - From Local Flavours to Global Destinations: How Intellectual Property Can Strengthen African Gastronomy Tourism. This workshop will deep dive into how geographical indications, brands and other intellectual property tools can strengthen African destinations, empower producers and create authentic visitor experiences. N.B. : Coffee service will be provided throughout the sessions. The technical workshops are accessible BY INVITATION ONLY to local and international participants duly accredited and appointed by their respective Member States or the organizations/entities they represent. The working language of the workshops is ENGLISH . TBC Welcome Cocktail (for international delegates) Thursday, 3 December 2026 Venue: Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre (JMBICC) (Lungi) Interpretation: English / French 11:00-11:15 Presentation of the UN Tourism Agenda for African Gastronomy Tourism 11:15-12:30 High-Level Panel – From Policy to Impact: Advancing Gastronomy Tourism in Africa This session will bring together policymakers and leaders to examine current policy frameworks and strategic approaches, and to discuss future action-oriented pathways that strengthen the impact of gastronomy tourism across Africa. 12:30-14:00 LUNCH & Live Cooking Demonstrations 14:00-14:15 Workshop Takeaways: From Discussion to Action Brief reflections from the Workshops held on the previous day, highlighting key insights, opportunities and proposed actions. 14:15-15:00 Panel Discussion: Empowering Women Through Gastronomy This panel will explore women’s indispensable roles across the gastronomy tourism value chain – from food production and processing to preparation and service provision – highlighting their central contribution to economic and social sustainable development. Yet, despite this contribution, over 70 percent of women-led businesses in Africa have insufficient access to financial services, and many operate in the informal sector, where they lack legal protection as well as access to training and market information. Coinciding with FAO’s launch of the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, the discussion will combine inspiring stories with practical, actionable solutions to address systemic barriers facing women, including access to land, finance, technologies, education, and participation in decision-making. 15:00-15:30 Creativity, the Heart of African Gastronomy This conversation will explore how culture, gastronomy and creativity shape destinations and position African cities as attractive, distinctive places to live, visit, and invest in. The discussion will highlight how gastronomy, cultural heritage, and local identity contribute to sustainable development and how these can be leveraged to brand tourism destinations, overcome persistent perceptual barriers and shift the narrative around the African continent. 15:30-16:30 Panel Discussion: Agritourism, A Gateway to Tourism, Culture and Agrifood Systems This panel will explore how agritourism experiences are created, packaged, and marketed to create tangible benefits for rural communities. In response to growing demand for authentic and immersive travel experiences, the discussion will examine how agrifood activities, traditional knowledge, and cultural practices can be transformed into sustainable and engaging gastronomy tourism products. Drawing on practical examples from across Africa and beyond, the panel will highlight how agritourism models support local producers, strengthen agrifood value chains, diversify rural economies, and generate income—while safeguarding cultural heritage and natural resources. 16:30-16:45 Conclusions 16:45-17:00 Closing Ceremony 19:30-21:30 Gala Dinner (for international delegates) Friday, 4 December 2026 09:00-20:00 Technical Tours Full-day programme for international delegates Historic, Leisure and Nature tours Beach Entertainment Street Food Tasting Festival Related links Gastronomy and Wine Tourism Provisional Programme - PDF General Information Note Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date December 04, 2026 Image Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public Registration Link https://app.untourism.int/", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/3-un-tourism-regional-forum-on-gastronomy-tourism-for-africa", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-07-07T13:13:16+00:00", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Source publication timestamp", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-07-07T13:13:16+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-08T11:15:10+00:00"}]

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Shaikha Al Nowais

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[{"title": "4th World Sports Tourism Congress", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "4th World Sports Tourism Congress UN Tourism May 29, 2026 Calender Text 4th World Sports Tourism Congress Region All Regions Sports Tourism Events The 4th World Sports Tourism Congress – organized by UN Tourism in collaboration with the Secretariat of Tourism of México, the Secretariat of Tourism of Mexico City, the Mexico City Tourism Promotion Fund, and the Affiliate Member the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services and Tourism (CONCANACO SERVYTUR) – will take place in Mexico City from 7 to 9 September 2026. In the strategic context following the celebration of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Mexico as one of the host countries, the Congress will bring together public authorities, destinations, sports organizations, companies and investors to examine sports tourism as a driver of development, investment and territorial transformation, with a focus on its impact on local communities. Topics on the Agenda Mega-events, impact and legacy Innovation, technology and visitors experience Active tourism and destination development Commercialization, sponsorship and business models Governance, investment and public-private collaboration Sustainability, inclusion and accessibility in sports tourism Branding of sports tourism destinations Trends, challenges and future opportunities Background on Sports Tourism Sports tourism accounts for approximately 10% of global tourism expenditure and reached an estimated global value of USD 672 billion in 2025, consolidating its position as one of the most dynamic segments of the tourism sector. It has evolved beyond major sporting events into a more transversal model that includes active and outdoor tourism, amateur sport, and new experiences linked to sports communities and fans. This evolution has expanded its territorial impact, enabling emerging destinations, rural areas and local communities to benefit from sport as a catalyst for economic and social development, while reinforcing the need for more sustainable and inclusive models. Speakers Shaikha Al Nowais Secretary-General – UN Tourism Josefina Rodríguez Secretary of Tourism – Government of Mexico Anthony Mahler Minister of Tourism, Youth, Sports, and Diaspora Relations – Government of Belize Daniel Scioli Secretary of Tourism, Environment and Sports – Government of Argentina Fernanda Câmara Vice Minister of Tourism – Government of Brazil Pedro Machado Secretary of State for Tourism, Commerce and Services – Government of Portugal Ana Claudia Caram Vice Minister of Tourism – Government of Uruguay Alejandra Frausto Secretary of Tourism – Government of Mexico City Maricarmen Martínez Secretary of Tourism – Government of Nuevo León Michelle Fridman Secretary of Tourism – Government of Jalisco Ion Vilcu Director – Affiliate Members and Public-Private Collaboration Department, UN Tourism Juliana Picoli Extraordinary Secretary – FIFA Women's World Cup 2027 Jurgen Mainka Chief Tournament Officer – FIFA World Cup 2026™ Jennifer Aguinaga Director – National Travel and Tourism Office, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce María José Alcalá President – Mexican Olympic Committee Fernando Platas Olympic Diver and Medalist Roberto Monroy President – ASETUR (Association of Tourism Secretaries of Mexico) María Guadalupe Robles León Secretary of Tourism, Government of Guanajuato Heitor Kadri Director – Regional Office for the Americas, UN Tourism Luis Alberto Rivera Morales Deputy Director for Sports Quality – National Commission for Physical Culture and Sport (CONADE) José Luis Sosa President, Mexican Sports Tourism Council (COMETUD) Valentín Díaz President – Buenos Aires Tourism Board Nathalie Veronique Desplas Puel Undersecretary of Tourism, Secretariat of Tourism of Mexico Octavio de la Torre President – Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services and Tourism (CONCANACO SERVYTUR México) Vicente Salas Vice President and Managing Director Americas – Messe Berlin Alejandro Araúzo Deputy Managing Director of Transaction Banking – Grupo Financiero BANORTE Carlos Martínez Director General – Mexico City Tourism Promotion Fund Melody Falcó Díaz Director General – Nuevo León State Institute of Physical Culture and Sport (INDE) David Trezeguet Ambassador – Club Atlético River Plate Mirna Beatriz de la Cruz Álvarez Director – México Imparable Isaac Noé Piña Valdivia Director General, León Municipal Commission for Physical Culture and Sport Ana Rivas Director General of Tourism – Government of Navarra Jens Holm CEO – World Masters Sport Patrick Torrent Vice President – NECSTouR (Network of European Regions for Competitive and Sustainable Tourism) Andrés Deyá President – Federation of Travel and Tourism Business Associations of Argentina (FAEVYT) Matías Patanian Current Ambassador and Former Vice President, Club Atlético River Plate & Vice President, Aeropuertos Argentina Gabriel Ramos Rodríguez President – World Archery México María Lorena Ramírez Athlete Miriam Morales Athlete Daniel Zaga Szenker Chief Economist – Deloitte Spanish LATAM Stacey Sun Vice President, Product Marketing – Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board Guntur Dwiarmein Head of Host Venue Relations – SailGP Olivier Ponti Director of Market Intelligence & Insights – Amadeus José Antonio Calatayud Executive Director of Marketing – Grupo Financiero BANORTE Yanina Martínez President – FEMTUR Jessica Stone Head of Hotels, Airlines, Growth Brand Partnerships, Americas – Tripadvisor Amr Abou Zein Eddin General Manager – Fujairah Adventures Center, Government of Fujairah Andrea Santini Adjunct Professor in Events Management – LUMSA University in Rome Cemil Hakan General Manager – Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau Alex Bonet Vice President, LATAM Northern Region and Country Manager, Mexico – ATREVIA Georgina Sánchez Regional Senior Partnership Sales Manager, Mexico – Formula E Matt Jones Senior Manager Sport & Events – Klook Jorge Balderrama Ramos Campaign Lead, Mexico & CCA, Airbnb Jaime Velázquez CEO – OPEMSA Verónica Simpson Senior Manager, US International Sales – Radisson Hotel Group María Benzal Commercial and International Relations Director – MADCUP El Charro González Ambassador of Mexican Culture – Secretariat of Tourism of Mexico Rosa Elena García Hidalgo Directora General Adjunta – Grupo Asesores en Negocios (GAN) Jesús Abraham Montoya Melo Founder – All Access Luxury Group Quetzalli Gómez Franco Founder – Rancho El Renacer For any questions regarding the 4th World Sports Tourism Congress, please contact us by email at wstc@unwto.org Documents Concept Note Official Pictures_Welcome Cocktail Programme Official Pictures_Day 1 General Information Note Official Pictures_Day 2 List of Participants Main Conclusions_4th WSTC Sports Tourism Keynote: Leveraging sports events for tourism success by Amadeus 3rd World Sports Tourism Congress Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date September 09, 2026 Image Dept COMM Dept. Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/4th-world-sports-tourism-congress", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-05-29", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-05-29T08:15:16+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe (CEU)", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe (CEU) nkusar March 31, 2026 Calender Text 72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe (CEU) Region Europe The 72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe took place in Malta from 12 to 14 May 2026, hosted under the kind auspices of the Government of Malta. The programme also featured a Tourism Tech Adventure on 12 May, the final showcase of the innovation challenge on Green Technologies for Urban Heat Mitigation in Malta , and concluded on 14 May with a high‑level conference “Driving Tourism Towards the Future We Want: A Dialogue on Policies to Balance Growth, People and Planet”. Programme Tuesday, 12 May 10:30 - 11:30 Fifteenth meeting of the Working Group for the Agenda for Europe (in attendance: Working Group members) Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Verdala (7th floor) 11:30 - 14:00 Technical meeting for Members: Best Tourism Villages Agenda for Europe International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 Riyadh Declaration Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Pinto (7th floor) 14:00 - 15:00 Lunch Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Foyer (7th floor) 15:00 - 16:00 Preparatory meeting with the Officers of the 72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe (in attendance: CEU Chair and Vice-Chairs) Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Verdala (7th floor) 16:00 - 17:30 Tourism Tech Adventure: final event of the innovation challenge on Green Technologies for Urban Heat Mitigation in Malta Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Pinto (7th floor) 18:30 - 19:30 Visit to the St John's Co-Cathedral 19:45 - 22:00 Welcome Cocktail and announcement of the winner of the innovation challenge on Green Technologies for Urban Heat Mitigation in Malta Location: Casino Maltese / Dresscode: cocktail Wednesday, 13 May 09:30 - 10:00 Opening of the 72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Grandmaster Suite (6th floor) 10:00 - 12:45 72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Grandmaster Suite (6th floor) 12:45 - 13:00 Acceptance ceremony for the new INSTO observatories in the region Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Grandmaster Suite (6th floor) 13:00 - 14:30 Lunch Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Main Lobby (5th floor) 14:30 - 17:00 72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Grandmaster Suite (6th floor) 17:00 - 17:30 Closing of the 72nd Meeting of the Commission for Europe Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Grandmaster Suite (6th floor) 20:30 - 23:00 Gala dinner Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Spinola Suite (5th floor) / Dresscode: cocktail Thursday, 14 May 09:00 - 13:00 Conference “Driving tourism towards the future we want: a Dialogue on Policies to balance growth, people and planet” Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Grandmaster Suite (6th floor) 13:00 - 14:30 Lunch Location: Hilton Conference Centre, Main Lobby (5th floor) 15:00 - 19:00 Technical visit: Mdina General information Provisional programme (rev. 10 May) List of participants Photos Meeting documents Conclusions and recommendations (English) Conclusions and recommendations (French) Conclusions and recommendations (Russian) Conclusions and recommendations (Spanish) Item 1: Provisional Agenda (English) Item 1: Provisional Agenda (French) Item 1: Provisional Agenda (Russian) Item 1: Provisional Agenda (Spanish) Item 2: Communication of the Chair (Montenegro) Item 3: Report of the UN Tourism Secretary-General: Global Vision and Regional Approach Item 5: Report of the UN Tourism Director for Europe: Implementation of the Programme of Work in Europe for the period 2025-2026 Item 5(a): Report of the Working Group for the Agenda for Europe Item 6: Report on the UN Tourism Affiliate Members activities in Europe for the period 2025-2026 Item 7: International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 (English) Item 7: International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 (French) Item 7: International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 (Russian) Item 7: International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 (Spanish) Item 8: Date and place of the next meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Europe Presentations Item 4: Report of the UN Tourism Executive Director: UN Tourism services, presented by Ms. Natalia Bayona Item 5: Report of the UN Tourism Director for Europe: Implementation of the Programme of Work in Europe for the period 2025-2026, presented by Ms. Cordula Wohlmuther Best Tourism Villages Initiative by UN Tourism, presented by Ms. Sandra Carvão The Riyadh Declaration on the Future of Tourism, presented by Mr. Antonio López de Ávila World Committee on Tourism Ethics, presented by Prof. Marina Novelli Seizing Opportunities in Europe (Amadeus), presented by Mr. Laurens Van Den Oever International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 - additional materials for regional consultations Roadmap, presented by Dr. Dirk Glaesser Thematic areas and rationale Flagship events Guidance note: National Committees Guidance note: Capacity Building Knowledge Base Side conference: Driving tourism towards the future we want: a Dialogue on Policies to balance growth, people and planet Provisional programme Recording Photos Main Takeaways Tourism Tech Adventure: Green Technologies for Urban Heat Mitigation in Malta for an improved experience for residents and visitors Provisional programme Challenge webpage Photos Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date May 14, 2026 Image Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Mixed", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/europe/ceu72", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-03-31", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-03-31T10:39:32+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability: The case of tourism and the ESG Framework for Tourism Businesses", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability: The case of tourism and the ESG Framework for Tourism Businesses UN Tourism February 19, 2026 Calender Text Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability Region All Regions This side event, held in the framework of the 57th session of the UN Statistical Commission, is jointly organized with the United Nations Committee of Experts on Business and Trade Statistics (UNCEBTS) and with the support of Statistics Netherlands and the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations. The event will bring together National Statistical Offices, international organizations, and private sector representatives to advance a globally coordinated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework for tourism businesses, based on statistical principles and aligned with international standards. The global statistical community will play a key role in delivering robust, comparable, and policy-relevant data. Agenda 1:00 – 1:15 pm Arrival Clara van der Pol, Director a.i., Statistics, Standards and Data, UN Tourism 1:15 – 1:25 pm Welcome Frans van der Straaten, Counsellor Sustainable Development, Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United Nations 1:25 – 1:40 pm Setting the scene Julian Chow, Chief, Business Statistics Section, UNSD, and UNCEBTS Secretariat Presentation on the ESG Framework for Tourism Businesses by Leandry Moreno, Programme Officer, and Anna Garbarczyk, Senior Project Specialist, UN Tourism 1:40 – 2:20 pm Panel discussion Moderated by Angelique Berg, Director General, Statistics Netherlands Elena Manzanera, President, National Statistical Institute (INE), Spain Matt Callaghan, Chief Operating Officer, easyJet holidays Sarah Hudgins, Head of Public Affairs for the US and Amerias, Booking Holdings 2:20 – 2:30 pm Q&A 2:30 – 2:45 pm Networking Documents and Related Links Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework for Tourism Businesses Concept Note Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City Bridging macro and micro data in sustainability New York City 3+ more With sponsorship by: Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date March 04, 2026 Image Dept COMM Dept. Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/bridging-macro-and-micro-data-in-sustainability", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-02-19", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-02-19T15:47:14+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "AM News | VOL. 85 - February 2026", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "AM News | VOL. 85 - February 2026 UN Tourism February 11, 2026 Image Region All Regions Document File am-nl-85-february.pdf Publication year 2026 Dear Affiliate Members, I am pleased to introduce the first edition of the Affiliate Members Newsletter for 2026. This monthly publication will keep you updated on the latest news, events, and initiatives related to your membership and the Affiliate Members network. Also included is the provisional calendar of events for 2026, featuring key UN Tourism events. Only a few weeks ago, several Affiliate Members from all over the world were actively engaged in FITUR 2026, the leading international tourism fair in Madrid, Spain. FITUR opened 2026 by confirming the strong momentum of the global tourism sector, surpassing 255,000 visitors over its five days. This favourable context is reflected in 2025 figures, a year in which, according to UN Tourism, international tourist arrivals worldwide exceeded 1.5 billion. I would like to extend our sincere thanks to all Affiliate Members who participated in and supported the dedicated activities organized by the Affiliate Members and Public‑Private Collaboration Department (AM‑PPC). These included: Affiliate Members Corner: “Cross-Sector Value in Tourism” , which brought together diverse perspectives on how collaboration across industries can enhance tourism competitiveness and innovation presented by expert Affiliate Members in their respective tourism sectors. Launch of the publication A Guide for the Development of Astrotourism , produced by UN Tourism in collaboration with the Affiliate Member Starlight Foundation, highlighting practical strategies for developing sustainable and educational astrotourism experiences. We continue to see a very positive response to the new tools available on AMConnected+, including the mobile app now accessible on both iOS and Android. I encourage all Affiliate Members to stay active on the platform, where you can access resources, explore collaboration opportunities, and contribute to shaping the future of tourism together. The Affiliate Members and Public‑Private Collaboration Department remains fully committed to supporting your initiatives and strengthening partnerships across our network. Please feel free to share your ideas, suggestions, or comments with us at any time. Sincerely, Ion Vilcu Director, AM-PPC Affiliate Members Template Large Departments COMM Dept. Show navigation block Off", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/am-news-vol-85-february", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-02-11", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-02-11T14:04:43+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "2nd UN Tourism Regional Congress on Women Empowerment in Tourism in Africa", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "2nd UN Tourism Regional Congress on Women Empowerment in Tourism in Africa UN Tourism January 30, 2026 Calender Text 2nd UN Tourism Regional Congress on Women Empowerment in Tourism in Africa Region Africa Women Empowerment Advancing from Empowerment to Leadership: Driving Structural Change in the Tourism Sector in Africa The 2nd UN Tourism Regional Congress on Women’s Empowerment in Tourism in Africa will be organized jointly by UN Tourism and the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry of the Republic of Zimbabwe. It will take place in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe from 29 April - 1 May 2026 . While women make up 69% of the hospitality workforce in Africa, they remain disproportionately concentrated in lower-paid or informal roles and are significantly underrepresented in executive leadership. This congress aims to move beyond foundational empowerment towards leadership pathways and decisive institutional action . It will focus on catalyzing policies and partnerships that transform women from workforce participants into the primary architects and decision-makers of Africa’s tourism landscape. Driving systemic change In alignment with the UN Tourism Agenda for Africa -Tourism for Inclusive Growth 's priority of empowering youth and women through tourism (SDG 5), the Congress will provide a platform for some of the leading female voices in African tourism. Celebrating their successes and considering ways to create institutional frameworks that drive systemic change and support the transition of more women into high-level, executive and decision-making roles. The Agenda The three-day programme will include a high-level ministerial dialogue with leaders from both the public and private sectors, a technical workshop for participants, a mentorship segment and the presentation of the results of the UN Tourism Global Report on Women in Tourism: the Transport Industries . Documents Programme Concept Note The Victoria Falls Statement on Structural Change for Women in Tourism in Africa (PDF) General Information Note Presentation: Global Report on Women in Tourism Transport Technical Workshop on Dismantling Structural Barriers to Career Progression | Programme Technical Workshop on Dismantling Structural Barriers to Career Progression | Participant Profile Opening Remarks: Mrs Lydia Bebe Kum Technical Workshop- Day 1 PPT Technical Workshop- Day 2 PPT Useful Links Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry of Zimbabwe UN Tourism in Africa UN Tourism & Women’s Empowerment UN Tourism Mentorship Programme for African Women Photo Galleries Opening Ceremony Day 1 (29 April 2026) Day 2 (30 April 2026) Technical Workshop Session Recordings: Day 1 (29 April 2026) Session Recordings: Day 2 (30 April 2026) Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date May 01, 2026 Image Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/2nd-un-tourism-regional-congress-on-women-empowerment-in-tourism-in-africa", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-01-30", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-01-30T10:32:45+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "ITB Berlin 2026", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "ITB Berlin 2026 UN Tourism January 29, 2026 Calender Text ITB Berlin Region All Regions Europe ITB Provisional Agenda Monday, 2 March 2026 8:30am – 10:00am Launch of Tourism for Rural Development Small Grants Programme – Colorful Cultures Africa * Announcement of the projects of the Tourism for Rural Development Small Grants Programme and the Colourful Cultures Call, enabled by the TUI Care Foundation Thomas Ellerbeck, Chairman of TUI Care Foundation & Chief Sustainability Officer, TUI Group Shaikha N. Alnuwais, Secretary General, UN Tourism Interventions by: Sandra Carvao, Director, Market Intelligence, Policies, Competitiveness, UN Tourism Constanze Mazeingo, Programme Manager, Namibia Development Foundation Trust (online) *(by invitation only) TUI Group Representative Office, Pariser Platz 6 A, 10117 Berlin, Germany 4:00pm - 5:30pm UN Tourism Minister’s Summit Empowering Emerging Destinations: From Potential to Performance * The UN Tourism Ministers’ Summit, organised with its Affiliate Member Messe Berlin, will convene ministers and private sector leaders to share practical approaches to managing growth and ensuring it is inclusive, sustainable and resilient. Concept Note Registration * *(by invitation only) CityCube Berlin Hall A3 6:30pm - 9:00pm Opening Gala CityCube Berlin, Level B Tuesday, 3 March 2026 3:35pm - 4:20pm The Global Roundtable: Leading Tourism into Balance Will discuss the major challenges facing tourism today. How can destinations create harmony between growth, sustainability, and community well-being? What role does tourism play in fostering peace, resilience, and shared prosperity in an increasingly fragmented world? And, ultimately, how can tourism be led into balance? Orange Stage, Center Stage 7:30pm - 11:00pm Leaders Dinner Berlin Official Handover Ceremony: “Tourism Doing Business Investing in Angola” Keynote Speech: “Investment trends and opportunities in Angola’s tourism sector\" Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date March 05, 2026 Image Dept COMM Dept. Attendance type Mixed Audience type Mixed", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/itb-2026", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-01-29", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-01-29T09:42:19+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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[{"title": "The 69th UN Tourism Commission for Africa and Thematic Conference on Strengthening Human Capital to Boost Africa’s Tourism Growth", "time": null, "end_time": null, "summary": "The 69th UN Tourism Commission for Africa and Thematic Conference on Strengthening Human Capital to Boost Africa’s Tourism Growth UN Tourism January 21, 2026 Calender Text The 69th UN Tourism Commission for Africa and Thematic Conference on Strengthening Human Capital to Boost Africa’s Tourism Growth Region Africa Commission Meeting We highly recommend that delegates book their hotel accommodation as early as possible due to the peak season in Seychelles and the limited availability of rooms. The Government of the Republic of Seychelles , in collaboration with UN Tourism, invites UN Tourism Member States, Affiliate Members, and key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to the Sixty-Ninth Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa , followed by a Thematic Conference Strengthening Human Capital to Boost Africa's Tourism Growth Victoria, Mahé, Republic of Seychelles, 2-4 July 2026. The conference provides a strategic platform to advance tourism management and transformation across the continent, with a strong focus on strengthening education and building a skilled, competitive tourism workforce . This landmark event will bring together leaders and experts from across Africa to discuss strategic policies, share best practices, and foster collaboration that enhances tourism's social and economic impact. By supporting capacity-building and educational initiatives, the conference aims to empower institutions and professionals to drive sustainable growth and position tourism as a key engine for Africa's development. Join leaders, experts, and stakeholders from across Africa to explore strategies, share best practices, and strengthen tourism education . Exclusive Travel Offer Only for Invited Delegates Attending the 69th UN Tourism Commission for Africa CAF. 02 - 04 July 2026. Mahé, Seychelles. Ethiopian Airlines is delighted to extend an exclusive 12% discount on both Business and Economy Class fares for delegates traveling for the 69th CAF event in Mahé, Republic of Seychelles. - This special promotion is available if you purchase your tickets online via Ethiopian Airlines or ticketing offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The Promotion Code: UNT26 General Information General Information Note Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Procedure Meeting Documents Conclusions and Recommendations of the 69th CAF Meeting Provisional Programme Provisional Agenda Item 2: Communication of the Chair (Zambia) Item 3: Report of the UN Tourism Secretary-General Item 4: Report of the UN Tourism Executive Director – Technical Cooperation Projects in the region Item 5(a): Report of the UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa - Implementation of the Programme of Work in Africa for the period 2025-2026 Item 5(b): Report of the UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa - Survey Findings on \"Promoting Access to Tourism Education and Human Capital Development in Africa\" Item 7: Presentation on “Travel Trends in Africa” by Amadeus Item 8: Report on the UN Tourism Affiliate Members activities in Africa for the period 2025- 2026 Model Credentials Letter Model Credentials Letter for Representation (proxy format) Presentations Presentation of the Report of the UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa - Implementation of the Programme of Work in Africa for the period 2025-2026 Presentation of the CAF Survey Findings on \"Promoting Access to Tourism Education and Human Capital Development in Africa\" Case Study – “Tourism Human Resources Development Strategy in Seychelles” Presentation by Africa Tourism Partners (ATP) - “Shaping the Future of Africa’s Tourism Talents” Photo Galleries Official Grand Opening and Thematic Conference 69th CAF Working Session Welcome Cocktail Gala Dinner Accept new registrations Off Allow duplicate registrants 0 End Date July 04, 2026 Image Dept COMM Dept. Attendance type Face-to-face Audience type Public", "location": null, "press_status": null, "source_url": "https://www.untourism.int/events/69th-un-tourism-commission-for-africa", "category": "News", "published_at": "2026-01-21", "updated_at": null, "event_date": null, "timezone": null, "timezone_basis": "unknown", "timezone_evidence": null, "source_adapter": "rss", "source_tier": "official_government", "date_evidence": "Legacy publication-date grouping; original timestamp unavailable", "location_evidence": null, "subject_countries": [], "incoming_publication_at": "2026-01-21T10:33:36+00:00", "revision_recorded_at": "2026-10-04T07:14:50+00:00"}]

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