‘Tourism and Rural Development’ - World Tourism Day 2020
Since 1980, World Tourism Day is commemorated annually on every 27th September which is led by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), an international key figure, in the field of tourism. The theme set for this year by UNWTO is ‘Tourism and Rural Development’, as it is a common belief that rural communities are full of opportunity in flourishing through a tourism sector. Tourism in rural communities provides jobs and economic empowerment. The economic boost allows rural communities to generate more income which will strengthen their ability to protect and promote their natural surroundings, as well as their culture and heritage. It is a chance for these communities, often left behind without any support, to stand up on its own feet.
(Photo Credit: Visit Maldives)
Maldives consists of multiple coral islands brimming an unfathomable sea rich in marine life and magnificent white sandy beaches. Because of its geographical location at the equator, Maldives usually maintains a warm and tropical climate throughout the year, making this one main reason why the Maldives is so popular to tourists. The island nation also showcases a variety of cultural and heritage sites deeply rooted with its diverse history.
In the 1960s, a United Nations mission on development had refused to recommend tourism in the country, by deeming the Maldivian islands were unfit for the purpose. Despite this, with immense effort and aspirations, the Maldivian tourism industry began in 1972 with just two resorts with a capacity of about 280 beds. It would not be wrong to have considered Maldives is a rural community, back then. The industry flourished by the decades passing. Here I say, Maldives is proof that tourism can successfully allow rural development.
(Photo Credit: Visit Maldives)
Presently there are over 132 resorts operating in the Maldives under local and foreign brands. Guesthouses and other tourist facilities has also been established in inhabited islands to accommodate tourists wishing to experience the island life.
Tourism industry is the largest economic sector in the country. Unfortunately, this year, the global outbreak of COVID-19 jeopardized the country’s tourism industry. In order to control the spread of coronavirus, the Maldivian government had been forced to close its borders for international tourists for almost 4 months. This has strained the country’s economy significantly, as we are heavily reliant on tourism industry for income. The borders were reopened to international tourists on 15th July 2020.
(Photo Credit: Visit Maldives)
Maldivian government is actively working mitigate the losses to the economy due the pandemic. It has been announced that a ceremony will be hosted by the government to mark the World Tourism Day at 9pm tonight.