27 September World Tourism Day, celebrated this year with the Tourism and Rural Development theme

CIU School of Tourism and Hotel Management Director, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Orhan Uludağ stated that the Covid-19 epidemic negatively affected supply and demand in the 2020 tourism season, and despite the developments, noted that World Tourism Day is important for all tourism stakeholders.

Explaining that the World Tourism Organization chose the title of "Tourism and Rural Development" as the main theme of this year, Uludağ said, "We should see this year as an opportunity to encourage the potential creation of employment in tourism."

“Tourism prevents rural to urban migration."
Reminding that tourism plays an important role in the protection and promotion of natural and cultural heritage, Uludağ also stated that the tourism sector has a unique role to play in preventing migration from rural to urban areas.

Pointing out that this year is the 40th anniversary of World Tourism Day, Uludağ said, "In light of these emerging realities, the global tourism industry is facing the COVID-19 outbreak, and thus the subject of" Tourism and Rural Development "is more prominent than ever."

Saying that tourism in rural areas offers important opportunities for improvement in the sector, Uludağ stated, "At this point, it is critical to support rural communities facing the economic and social effects of the epidemic."

Stating that societies in rural areas are generally less ready to deal with the direct and indirect impact of the Covid-19 crisis, Uludağ summarized that population age, low income level, relative lack of economic diversity, 'digital divide' and distance from health centers are the reasons for this.

“99% reduction by the end of the year…”
Saying that domestic tourism is predicted to recover faster than international tourism, Uludağ said, "If managed well, rural communities can benefit, especially by protecting livelihoods and stimulating local economies."

Stating that by the end of the year a 90% decrease is expected in world tourism, Uludağ went on to say that the investments to be made in Rural Tourism and Domestic Tourism, will provide an environment for the revival of tourism.