UNESCO Calls for End to Selfie Tourism Destruction

Published on August 30, 2024

Cultural and historical landmarks worldwide are at risk due to the rise of ‘selfie-tourism,’ a trend that UNESCO warns could lead to severe consequences if not addressed.

UNESCO defines selfie-tourism as the practice where travelers visit destinations primarily to take and share photos of themselves, often with iconic landmarks in the background. Unlike traditional tourism, where the focus was on capturing memories, selfie-tourism is driven by the desire to create visually appealing content for social media, leading to overcrowding at popular sites and putting immense pressure on local communities and infrastructure.

“This phenomenon has escalated with the rise of social media platforms, where visually appealing content drives user engagement,” explained a UNESCO spokesperson. The focus has shifted from experiencing a place to creating shareable moments, often at the cost of the destination’s cultural and historical significance.

The impacts of selfie-tourism are widespread. In some locations, previously lesser-known sites have become overwhelmed by visitors after gaining popularity on social media. This influx can strain local resources, degrade the visitor experience, and even lead to disrespectful or harmful behaviors, such as trespassing, vandalism, or dangerous attempts to capture the perfect photo.

In response to these challenges, UNESCO is advocating for sustainable tourism practices. The organization encourages the implementation of visitor management strategies, such as limiting the number of visitors, introducing timed entry tickets, or restricting access to certain areas. Venice, Italy, is one example where such measures are being put into place, including banning large cruise ships from the lagoon and requiring single-day visitors to purchase tickets.

UNESCO also emphasizes the role of influencers and social media platforms in promoting responsible tourism. By educating influencers about the impact of their activities and encouraging them to spread messages that highlight the importance of sustainable travel, UNESCO believes there can be a shift towards more mindful tourism practices.

The organization urges travelers to approach cultural and historical sites with respect and to focus on experiencing the unique heritage and culture of each destination rather than merely capturing images for social media. By fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the places they visit, UNESCO aims to ensure that tourism remains both enriching and sustainable.