UN Tourism and Vietnam Collaborate for Rural Development

UN Tourism, in partnership with Vietnam's Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, hosted the First Conference on Tourism for Rural Development in Hoi An. This event gathered government officials, financial institutions, development agencies, tourism professionals, community leaders, researchers, and NGOs to discuss strategies that enhance tourism's role in rural development.

Empowering Local Communities

Discussions highlighted tourism's potential to create jobs, protect cultural heritage, and promote social inclusion, particularly for local communities, women, and youth. Topics included policy frameworks for rural tourism, synergies between agriculture and tourism for sustainability, market access, digital tools, and funding for community-led initiatives. Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director of UN Tourism, stated, “This landmark event showcased tourism's capacity to transform rural communities. By centering our discussions on people and the planet, we’ve initiated actionable strategies for a sustainable future.” Le Thanh Long, Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister, emphasized that the Tourism for Rural Development Programme aligns with Vietnam's development strategy, focusing on sustainable growth and digital transformation.

Integrating Tourism into Rural Development

The conference stressed the need to integrate tourism into rural development agendas and funding strategies. It advocated for partnerships across sectors to ensure tourism contributes to economic growth while preserving cultural and natural resources. Panels explored strategies for effective policies, infrastructure challenges, and enhancing local initiatives through public-private partnerships. Experts from organizations like the Asian Development Bank and Food and Agriculture Organization shared insights on sustainable tourism's role in fostering economic resilience and equitable opportunities for rural areas. Media professionals also provided communication strategies to enhance tourism's impact.

Fliggy Partnership for Rural Progress

A significant highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between UN Tourism and Fliggy to enhance rural tourism collaboration. This partnership aims to promote responsible tourism practices and technological innovation, including showcasing Best Tourism Villages and developing training programs. Best Tourism Villages Network Meeting Additionally, the conference hosted the Second Annual Meeting of the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism Network, with representatives from over 30 villages. Participants reflected on the Network's achievements and developed a strategic framework to enhance planning and coordination among the villages. The Best Tourism Villages Network unites villages recognized for their tourism excellence and those involved in the Upgrade Programme.