Colombia, represented by the president of ProColombia, Carmen Caballero, had an unprecedented participation in the United Nations Sustainability Week conversations, specifically in the high-level event focused on tourism, under the theme “Tourism Promotion sustainable and resilient, including ecotourism, for the eradication of poverty and the protection of the environment.”
The purpose of this event, in which more than 20 nations converge, is to highlight the importance of tourism as a generator of employment, income and opportunities, especially in developing countries and small island states. Furthermore, as a central part of the agenda, the issue of how to measure the sustainability of tourism and its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda is raised.
In a world where sustainability and environmental preservation are imperative, Colombia stands out as a regional leader and example to follow in the integration of sustainable practices in the tourism industry.
Colombia's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its tourism policy, which prioritizes environmental preservation, the socioeconomic well-being of local communities, and the promotion of meaningful experiences for responsible travelers. This strategic approach, led by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism, has led the country to historic growth in the tourism sector, with more than 5.8 million international visitors in 2023.
Colombia is also proud to be one of the few countries in the world with a sustainable tourism policy, a commitment that goes beyond national borders and encompasses the global responsibility to preserve biodiversity and protect the environment.
“At ProColombia, we reiterate our commitment to continue leading the way towards a more sustainable future in tourism, inviting everyone to join our cause and rediscover the immense biodiversity and enormous potential of Colombia, The Country of Beauty,” says Carmen. Caballero, president of ProColombia.
There are companies that, for example, demonstrate how sustainable tourism drives economic and social growth in Colombia while protecting its natural and cultural environment. One of them, located in the Amazon-Orinoquía region, stands out for reintegrating ex-combatants into society through community ecotourism; and another, in the Colombian Pacific, promotes Afro-Colombian culture while collaborating with local communities, generating economic benefits and preserving cultural heritage for 15 organizations, benefiting 64 households.