"Tourism is a true driver of solidarity and development. Let us all fully harness its power to unite people and communities by adhering to the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. In this way, tourism can continue to offer better opportunities and sustainable development for millions of people around the world."

 

Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Tourism Secretary-General, August 2020

 

As a fundamental framework for responsible and sustainable tourism, the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism (GCET) is a comprehensive set of principles designed to guide key stakeholders in tourism development. Aimed at governments, the travel industry, communities, and tourists, it aims to help maximize the benefits of the sector while minimizing its potentially negative impact on the environment, cultural heritage, and societies worldwide.

 

Adopted in 1999 by the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization, its recognition by the United Nations two years later expressly encouraged UN Tourism to promote effective monitoring of its provisions. While not legally binding, the Code provides a voluntary implementation mechanism by recognizing the role of the World Committee on Tourism Ethics (WCTE), to which stakeholders can address questions regarding the application and interpretation of the document.

 

The Code's 10 articles broadly cover the economic, social, cultural, and environmental components of travel and tourism and can be found at the following link: www.unwto.org/global-code-of-ethics-for-tourism.

 

CORKLANDS adheres to and applies the principles of the UN Tourism Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, promoting responsible tourism that strengthens solidarity and sustainable development. We value practices that bring people and communities together, ensuring that our experiences and events create opportunities, respect local cultures, and protect the environment.