Seychelles, Toledo and Africa Strengthen Global Tourism Cooperation at UN Executive Council, But Could New Focus on Connectivity and Workforce Development Reshape Travel Growth Across Island Nations?

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Seychelles, Toledo and destinations across Africa came together at a pivotal moment for global tourism as the Indian Ocean nation took part in the 126th Session of the UN Tourism Executive Council in Spain. For a country where tourism remains one of the primary economic drivers, the gathering placed Seychelles at the centre of international discussions surrounding connectivity, sustainability, workforce development and the future direction of tourism growth.

The meeting, held in the historic Spanish city of Toledo, marked the first Executive Council session under the leadership of the newly elected Secretary-General of UN Tourism, who presented a management vision for 2026–2029 built around four key pillars: Foundations, Collaboration, Capacity Building and Sustainability.

For Seychelles, the event also represented a significant return to the Executive Council following the country’s successful election to the body during the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa meeting held in Nigeria last year.

Seychelles Returns to the UN Tourism Executive Council

The participation of Seychelles highlighted the increasing role that island destinations and African tourism economies are playing within global tourism governance.

Representing the country were Minister for Tourism and Culture Amanda Bernstein and Principal Secretary for Tourism Sherin Francis. Their presence reflected Seychelles’ renewed engagement in international tourism decision-making at a time when destinations worldwide continue adapting to changing traveller expectations, sustainability requirements and connectivity challenges.

Membership of the Executive Council provides countries with an opportunity to contribute to discussions shaping tourism policy, international cooperation and destination development strategies.

For tourism-dependent destinations such as Seychelles, these conversations have direct relevance to visitor growth, aviation connectivity, workforce planning and long-term sustainability.

Tourism Connectivity Takes Centre Stage

One of the most important tourism themes raised during the Council meeting was connectivity.

For island nations and many African destinations, air access remains one of the most influential factors affecting tourism growth. Visitors can only reach destinations if affordable, reliable and efficient transport networks are available.

Seychelles highlighted the importance of addressing issues related to visa facilitation, airlift capacity and travel affordability, all of which directly influence destination competitiveness.

The discussion reflects broader challenges facing many tourism markets across Africa and island regions. Limited flight frequencies, high travel costs and complex travel requirements can affect visitor flows and tourism investment opportunities.

Improved connectivity has become increasingly important as destinations compete for international travellers seeking seamless journeys and convenient access to holiday experiences.

Why Connectivity Matters for Island Tourism

For island destinations, connectivity is closely linked to economic resilience.

Unlike continental destinations that can often rely on road or rail access, islands depend heavily on aviation networks to connect with global tourism markets. Every flight arriving at an island destination supports a wider tourism ecosystem that includes hotels, tour operators, restaurants, attractions and local communities.

Seychelles has long positioned itself as a premium tourism destination, attracting visitors through its beaches, marine environments, biodiversity and luxury hospitality offerings.

Maintaining strong international air links remains essential for sustaining visitor arrivals and supporting tourism-related employment.

The conversation in Toledo highlighted the growing recognition that connectivity challenges require coordinated solutions involving governments, airlines, airports and tourism stakeholders.

Workforce Development Emerges as a Global Priority

Alongside connectivity, workforce development featured prominently in discussions.

As tourism continues evolving, destinations face increasing demand for skilled professionals capable of delivering high-quality visitor experiences across hospitality, aviation, destination management and tourism services.

Seychelles identified human capital development as a major area of focus and highlighted its upcoming role as host of the UN Tourism Thematic Conference on Human Capital Development.

The event will be held alongside the 69th Meeting of the Regional Commission for Africa and is expected to bring together tourism leaders, policymakers and industry professionals from across the continent.

The conference will focus on workforce readiness, skills development and the future needs of the tourism sector as destinations adapt to changing market conditions.

Sustainability Remains Central to Tourism Planning

Another major theme emerging from the Executive Council discussions was sustainability.

For island nations such as Seychelles, sustainable tourism is directly connected to environmental protection, cultural preservation and economic stability.

Tourism contributes significantly to national economies, but destinations must also ensure that growth does not compromise natural assets that attract visitors in the first place.

Seychelles has consistently promoted sustainable tourism policies focused on marine conservation, biodiversity protection and responsible destination management.

The Secretary-General’s emphasis on sustainability aligns with broader international efforts to balance tourism growth with environmental stewardship and community wellbeing.

Across Africa and the Indian Ocean region, sustainability continues to influence destination planning, investment decisions and tourism development strategies.

Africa’s Voice Gains Greater Visibility

The meeting also reflected the growing visibility of African destinations within global tourism discussions.

As international travel patterns continue evolving, Africa is attracting increasing attention as a region rich in cultural, wildlife, heritage and adventure tourism opportunities.

Many destinations across the continent are investing in infrastructure, digital transformation, sustainability initiatives and tourism workforce development to strengthen their competitiveness.

Seychelles’ return to the Executive Council provides another platform through which African tourism priorities can be represented at the international level.

The participation of African destinations in global tourism governance discussions is becoming increasingly important as the continent seeks to expand visitor arrivals and strengthen tourism’s contribution to economic development.

Seychelles Prepares to Host Key Tourism Events

Attention is now turning towards Seychelles’ upcoming hosting responsibilities.

The country is preparing to welcome delegates for the UN Tourism Thematic Conference on Human Capital Development and the 69th Meeting of the Regional Commission for Africa in July 2026.

The events are expected to position Seychelles as an important gathering point for tourism leaders from across Africa and beyond.

Discussions are likely to focus on workforce readiness, connectivity, destination resilience, sustainability and future tourism growth opportunities.

For tourism stakeholders, these meetings provide an opportunity to examine how destinations can strengthen competitiveness while addressing emerging challenges within the global travel landscape.

Key Timeline and Events

• 2025: Seychelles regained its seat on the UN Tourism Executive Council during elections held at the Regional Commission for Africa meeting in Nigeria.
• 2026: The 126th Session of the UN Tourism Executive Council was held in Toledo, Spain.
• 2026–2029: New UN Tourism management vision introduced under four pillars — Foundations, Collaboration, Capacity Building and Sustainability.
• 2–4 July 2026: Seychelles will host the UN Tourism Thematic Conference on Human Capital Development.
• July 2026: Seychelles will also host the 69th Meeting of the Regional Commission for Africa.

Conclusion

Seychelles, Toledo and tourism stakeholders across Africa used the 126th Session of the UN Tourism Executive Council to advance discussions on connectivity, workforce development, sustainability and international cooperation. As Seychelles strengthens its role within global tourism governance and prepares to host major tourism events in 2026, the focus remains on improving access, developing talent and supporting sustainable growth. For island destinations and African tourism economies alike, these priorities are increasingly shaping the future of travel across the region and beyond.