Tourism worst hit as countries impose restrictions on travel
The tourism sector has taken a serious beating from the COVID-19 crisis as 100 percent of global destinations continue to have restrictions on travel in place, and 72 percent have completely closed their borders to international tourism.
A new research from the World Tourism Organisation showed that while discussions on possible first measures for lifting restrictions were underway, 100 percent of destinations worldwide still have coronavirus-related travel restrictions for international tourists in place.
It said out of all 217 destinations worldwide, 156 (72 percent) had placed a complete stop on international tourism, according to the data collected as of April 27, 2020.
According to the United Nations specialised agency for tourism, in 25 percent of destinations, restrictions have been in place for at least three months, while in 40 percent of destinations, restrictions were introduced at least two months ago.
The research also found that no destination had so far lifted or eased travel restrictions.
The 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.”
Breaking the research down by region, the UNWTO has found that 83 percent of destinations in Europe have introduced complete closure of borders for international tourism.
In the Americas, this proportion stands at 80 percent; in Asia and the Pacific, it is 70 percent; in the Middle East, it is 62 percent; and in Africa, it is 57 percent.
