Director-General's remarks at the 26th Edition of the Swiss Vacation Day

Swiss Vacation Day

Monday, 29 April 2024 at 1.00 p.m.

Palexpo, Hall 1-3

Mr. Nydegger,

Mr. Genier, 

Mrs Gadient,

Excellencies, 

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure to join you today for the 26^th edition of the Swiss Vacation Day. This event is one of the most important gatherings of its kind and I thank the organizers for inviting me to open these two days of discussions centered around the watchwords: “Ready for tomorrow”.

There is a clear correlation between the work of the United Nations and tourism.

Tourism, as a global phenomenon, transcends borders and cultures, enriching lives, fostering economic prosperity, and promoting mutual understanding among nations. 

Beyond its role as a source of leisure and recreation, tourism serves as a powerful engine of economic growth and social development. In countries around the world, tourism generates revenue, creates jobs, and stimulates investment in various sectors, from hospitality and transportation to agriculture and handicrafts. It employs one in every ten people on Earth and provides livelihoods to hundreds of millions more. Moreover, tourism promotes cultural exchange, celebrates diversity, and fosters dialogue between peoples, laying the foundation for peace, cooperation, and global solidarity. As the UN Secretary-General António Guterres puts it “one might say that tourism is itself one of the wonders of the world”.

But tourism also has negative impacts: it often puts pressure on natural resources, and contributes to pollution and waste problems. It is estimated that CO₂ emissions from tourism could rise 25% or more by 2030 (compared to 2016). 

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development offers a global framework to end poverty, combat inequality, protect the planet and achieve prosperity for all.  Sustainable tourism is firmly positioned in the 2030 Agenda, and is directly referenced in three goals: SDG 8 “decent work and economic growth”, SDG 12 “responsible consumption and production” and SDG 14 “life below water”.

Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the vulnerability of the tourism industry to external shocks and disruptions. As borders closed and travel restrictions were imposed, millions of livelihoods were threatened, and economies plunged into crisis. In response, the United Nations has played a pivotal role in coordinating a global response to support the recovery and resilience of the tourism sector. Through the UN World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the United Nations has provided guidance, resources, and technical assistance to help countries navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic and chart a path towards a new, sustainable tourism.

The redefinition of tourism in more sustainable terms can work as a strong sign of commitment to the achievement of the SDGs. Tourism can play an important role in reshaping the human-environment relationship and in promoting a long-term sustainability.

Furthermore, it is essential to highlight the significance of tourism for cities like Geneva, where the United Nations Office at Geneva, housed in the iconic Palais des Nations, stands as a beacon of diplomacy and international cooperation. The presence of the UN in Geneva not only elevates the city’s global profile but also attracts visitors from around the world, eager to witness firsthand the hub of multilateralism and peace efforts. As tourists explore Geneva’s cultural treasures, from the charming Old Town to the serene shores of Lac Leman, they often include a visit to the Palais des Nations, which fosters greater understanding and appreciation for the vital work undertaken within its walls. Thus, tourism in Geneva is not only enriched by the presence of the United Nations but also plays a role in promoting its mission of global solidarity and cooperation. This bound will soon be enriched by the opening in the summer of 2025 of the new visitor center of the Palais des Nations: the Portail des Nations. The new UN Geneva Visitor Center is a donation of the Fondation Portail des Nations, and it will offer a contemporary, interactive multimedia experience that will deepen the visitors’ comprehension of the work of the United Nations and create a real connection with the public. 

As we celebrate Swiss Vacation Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to harnessing the power of tourism for the greater good. Let us embrace sustainable travel practices that protect our planet, support local economies, and promote cultural exchange and understanding. Let us be “ready for tomorrow”.

Thank you.