UNWTO hosts expert seminar on Global Tourism Law

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

The pressing need for a consistent legal framework to assist tourists was underscored by the pandemic. In response to this unprecedented crisis in tourism, the UNWTO swiftly developed a groundbreaking International Code for Tourists. This landmark legal instrument, approved at the 24th UNWTO General Assembly in 2021, was created in record time after consultations with over 100 countries, both Member States and non-Members, and representatives from the private sector. Recognized as a crucial tool for restoring confidence in travel, the Code has gained acceptance from 22 countries to date.

To delve deeper into the principles and recommendations for aiding international tourists, UNWTO, in collaboration with the University of Salamanca and Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University, organized the inaugural legal seminar. Over two days, leading experts engaged in multilateral panel discussions, focusing on challenges and advocating for the recognition of Tourism Law as an independent branch of the legal system.

Key highlights from the seminar include:

1. Emphasis on Tourism Law as a distinct branch of international law, featuring insights from experts at UNESCO, IMO, the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs, the Interamerican Development Bank, and the Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs.
2. Establishment of a PhD program in Tourism Law with the Universities of Salamanca and Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University to support advanced studies in this specific legal field.
3. Assessment of the Code’s role in crisis management, drawing lessons from the pandemic, and leveraging expert insights from leading academics.
4. Exploration of the minimum standard of protection for tourists, discussions on contractual issues during emergency situations, and recommendations for best practices related to digital services, emergency prevention, assistance, and repatriation.

The seminar not only addressed challenges hindering the definition and integration of Tourism Law into broader legal systems but also showcased opportunities through Code adherence. Case studies, including Uruguay’s championing of the International Code for the Protection of Tourists, were presented as best practices. The event also highlighted how the Code can balance responsibilities among countries, businesses, and tourists during emergencies, framing crises as opportunities.

Additionally, participants were introduced to the Tourism Law Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean, a digital tool jointly created by UNWTO and IDB. This observatory compiles legislation affecting tourism activity in the region, serving as a comparability tool, issuing recommendations, and supporting the development of tourism-related legislation for UNWTO Member States.

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• Salamanca to host first UNWTO International Seminar on Tourism Law

• First UNWTO global seminar in Salamanca on tourism law