The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations and the leading international organisation in the field of tourism. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) plays a central role in promoting the development of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism with a focus on the interests of developing countries. Its membership includes 161 nations and more than 300 affiliate members representing the private sector, educational institutions, tourism associations and local tourism authorities.
Australia is a full member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization and is part of the East Asia and the Pacific Region, one of five regions whose representatives are based at the organization's headquarters in Madrid. Australia rejoined the United Nations World Tourism Organization in 2004, having previously been a member from 1979-1990.
Membership benefits for Australia include providing a forum for discussion on important issues such as climate change whilst allowing Australia to directly influence the policy direction of world tourism. The UNWTO also expands Australia's network of contacts in specialised areas and expands our knowledge of key international tourism developments. It also facilitates capacity building and the broadening of expertise for Australian tourism businesses.
Visit the United Nations World Tourism Organization website
for additional information.