INTERNATIONAL. COVID-19 has prompted all destinations worldwide to introduce travel restrictions and, so far, no country has lifted them, according to new research by the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
The latest report from the United Nations agency for tourism shows 83% of the 217 destinations covered have had COVID-19-related restrictions in place already for four or more weeks.
According to UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, the sudden and unexpected fall in tourism demand caused by COVID-19 places millions of jobs and livelihoods at risk. At the same time, he said, it jeopardises the advances made in sustainable development and equality over recent years.
He added: “Tourism has shown its commitment to putting people first. Our sector can also lead the way in driving recovery. This research on global travel restrictions will help support the timely and responsible implementation of exit strategies, allowing destinations to ease or lift travel restrictions when it is safe to do so.
“This way, the social and economic benefits that tourism offers can return, providing a path to sustainable recovery for both individuals and whole countries.”
UNWTO analysis shows that, of the 217 destinations covered, 45% have totally or partially closed their borders for tourists.
About 30% of these destinations have suspended totally or partially international flights; 18% are banning the entry for passengers from specific countries of origin or passengers who have transited through specific destinations; and 7% are applying different measures, such as quarantine or self-isolation for 14 days and visa restrictions.
