Griffith University has been awarded membership with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
The UNWTO is the leading international tourism organisation and acts as a global forum for tourism policy issues and a practical source of tourism know-how.
Only a small, select group of Australian based organisations have been accepted as affiliate members of the UNWTO, with only nation-states granted full membership.
Griffith Head of Tourism, Leisure, Hotel and Sport Management Professor Michael Davidson said the University was honoured to be associated with the UNWTO.
“For more than a decade Griffith has been one of Australia’s leading providers of tourism programs and our membership with UNWTO will further strengthen our position,” Professor Davidson said.
“Our acceptance as an UNWTO affiliate member signifies our commitment to strengthening the local, national and international tourism industries and recognises our commitment to fostering sustainable development in these industries.”
As a UNWTO member Griffith will work with the most senior levels of the private sector, educational institutions, tourism associations and local tourism authorities, to national Governments and international agencies.
“Working with the UNWTO, Griffith will be linked with the major issues and directions in global tourism. This will influence our research and courses to ensure our graduates are even better prepared for the global tourism industry,” Professor Davidson said.
Professor Davidson said Griffith had even greater access to UNWTO expertise through Adjunct Professor Geoffrey Lipman, who was appointed earlier this year.
“Mr Lipman has been at the forefront of global tourism for 40 years — as a senior director within the International Air Transport Association, founding President of the World Travel and Tourism Council and as UNWTO Assistant Secretary General,” Professor Davidson said.
“Working with Mr Lipman and the UNWTO Griffith is set to make an even greater contribution to the future of the tourism industry.”