Madrid meeting sets framework to move sustainable tourism from dialogue to delivery
UN Tourism has officially launched a global road map to prepare for the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027, marking a significant step in aligning tourism with long-term sustainability and resilience goals.
Mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to lead implementation of the International Year, UN Tourism presented the new framework during a meeting of its Committee on Tourism and Sustainability (CTS) in Madrid on February 2, 2026.
From Commitment to Implementation
The Road Map outlines the governance structure and consultation process that will guide preparations through 2027. It was developed through collaboration with Member States and received strong backing from the Committee.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nuwais emphasized that sustainability and resilience must be embedded as ongoing processes rather than fixed objectives.
She noted that the International Year will position tourism as a transformative sector within the post-2030 global development agenda, supporting Member States in integrating sustainability, climate action and resilience planning into tourism policy.
Governance Structure for the Path to 2027
Preparations will be:
- Anchored within the Committee on Tourism and Sustainability
- Guided by a Steering Committee of Member States
- Informed by consultations through Regional Commission meetings
- Endorsed by the Executive Council
The Committee on Tourism and Sustainability functions as a subsidiary body of the Executive Council and monitors implementation of UN Tourism’s program of work on sustainable tourism.
Member States Back Coordinated Action
William Rodríguez López, Minister of Tourism of Costa Rica and Chair of the Committee, highlighted tourism’s growing importance within global development strategies.
He described the International Year as a unique opportunity to translate shared commitments into coordinated, measurable action, particularly in areas such as climate adaptation and long-term economic resilience.
Positioning Tourism in the Post-2030 Agenda
The International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027 aims to strengthen tourism’s contribution to:
- Climate mitigation and adaptation
- Economic diversification
- Community resilience
- Sustainable development beyond 2030
By launching its Road Map early, UN Tourism is signaling a shift toward structured implementation, measurable outcomes and stronger collaboration between governments and industry stakeholders.
As preparations accelerate, the International Year is expected to serve as a catalyst for embedding sustainability and resilience at the core of global tourism policy.
