Tourism surpasses pre-pandemic levels despite global tensions

Almost 690 million tourists traveled worldwide between January and June, about 33 million more than the same period last year and 4% above pre-pandemic levels, CE Report quotes ANSA.

Despite increasingly violent wars and growing geopolitical and economic tensions, tourism continues to show strong momentum and resilience. It is preparing to celebrate World Tourism Day 2025, observed by the United Nations every September 27, with the hope of becoming more and more a tool for peace as well as a major source of support for local economies, employment, and livelihoods.

This year’s theme is the deep connection between travel and sustainability (“Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”).

The official celebrations will be hosted in Malaysia, but initiatives are planned worldwide. The UN’s World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) invites everyone to share their celebration photos on social media using hashtags #WTD2025 and #WorldTourismDay2025.

Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè believes sustainability is the beating heart of global tourism and a government priority. In an interview with ANSA, she explained: “An integrated and three-dimensional vision is necessary to approach sustainability from economic, social, and environmental perspectives, allowing us to face challenges in their full complexity.

These are complex issues that require a systemic approach. I firmly believe that sustainability should not be just a label or a passing trend, but a process to be monitored, supported, and guided through proper investment and communication policies.”