INTERNATIONAL. New research from the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) shows that 100% of global destinations have restrictions on travel in place, and 72% have completely closed their borders to international visitors as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.
The agency said that, out of all 217 destinations worldwide, 156 (72%) have placed a complete stop on international tourism (data as of 27 April). In 25% of destinations, restrictions have been in place for at least three months, while in 40% of destinations, restrictions were introduced at least two months ago. Crucially, no destination has so far lifted or eased travel restrictions.
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism has been the hardest hit of all the major sectors as countries lockdown and people stay at home. UNWTO calls on governments to work together to coordinate the easing and lifting of restrictions in a timely and responsible manner, when it is deemed safe to do so. Tourism is a lifeline to millions, especially in the developing world. Opening the world up to tourism again will save jobs, protect livelihoods and enable our sector to resume its vital role in driving sustainable development.”
The UNWTO research tracks measures taken since the end of January, when the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared COVID-19 to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Breaking the research down by region, UNWTO has found that 83% of destinations in Europe have introduced complete closure of borders for international tourism. In the Americas, this proportion stands at 80%, in Asia and the Pacific it is 70%, in the Middle East it is 62% and in Africa it is 57%.
UNWTO has been working closely with international organisations, national governments and the private sector, to support the recovery of tourism. Within the past two weeks, the UNWTO Secretary-General has addressed Ministers of the G20 and of the EU Commission, making the case for tourism to be made a priority as countries look to recover from the crisis.
