The tourism sector is a major driver of economic growth and an engine for job creation. In recent decades, it has experienced continued expansion and diversification and has become one of the largest and fastest-growing economic sectors globally. 3 Sustainable tourism can have a positive impact on the livelihoods of women and men, lift communities out of poverty, drive prosperity and generate economic and social benefits in the countries of destination. Tourism has a multiplier effect across economic sectors – such as accommodation and food services, agriculture, retail and transport – and when sustainably managed can contribute to economic diversification, enhance local culture and products, promote local enterprises and support job creation. The importance of the sector for jobs,
local and national economic development, culture, products and services is reflected in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular SDGs 8, 12 and 14, which include tourism-specific targets.