UNWTO reports worldwide travel restrictions across all global destinations

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

According to the latest research by the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), every destination across the world is currently following COVID-19 travel restrictions. The latest data from the agency shows that 100% of destinations across the world now have travel restrictions in place.

All restrictions related to travel across global destinations have been prompted by the coronavirus pandemic. So far, no country around the world has lifted its restrictions. UNWTO is of the opinion that this by far the most severe restriction in the history of international travel. Nearly 83% of destinations have coronavirus related travel bans for four or more weeks. As of April 20, no destination has lifted them.

Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General, UNWTO said in a press statement that tourism has shown its commitment and prioritised people above everything. He mentioned that the sector is even capable of leading the way in driving recovery. He informed that the sudden and unexpected fall in tourism demand caused by COVID-19 has placed millions of jobs and livelihoods at risk. He also said that it has additionally jeopardised the advances made in sustainable development and equality over recent years.

He further added that the research on global travel restrictions will help support the timely and responsible implementation of exit strategies. He shared that it will also allow destinations to ease or lift travel restrictions when it is safe to do so. He said that all following the method, all social and economic benefits that tourism offers can be returned and a path to sustainable recovery for both individuals and whole countries can be provided.

Besides providing a general overview, the UNWTO research also breaks down the type of travel restrictions that have been introduced by destinations in all of the global regions. It also states that the evolution of these restrictions commenced since January 30, when the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

The latest analysis by the organisation showcases that out of 217 destinations worldwide, 45% have totally or partially closed their borders for tourists. These destinations have stopped passengers and visitors from entering the country. The analysis also states that around 30% of destinations have suspended all international flights either totally or partially.

It also states that 18% are banning the entry for visitors from specific countries of origin or passengers who have transited through specific destinations and 7% are applying different measures, such as quarantine or self-isolation for 14 days and visa measures. Against the current situation, UNWTO has continued to call upon governments across the world to commit to supporting tourism through an unprecedented challenge.

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