The Executive Council’s Interinstitutional Working Group on Tourism and Climate Action is now officially operational.
During the 26th session of the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, 29 countries from across all global regions convened for the inaugural meeting of the Working Group, marking a significant step forward in strengthening global governance on climate action within the tourism sector.
Antigua and Barbuda was elected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Working Group, while Brazil was elected Chair.
This collaborative mechanism is designed to support countries in advancing evidence-based and coordinated approaches that enhance climate adaptation, reduce emissions, and accelerate the transition toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient tourism future.
Representing Antigua and Barbuda on the Working Group is Mr. St. Clair Soleyn, Director of Policy and Planning within the Ministry of Tourism and Investment.
According to Mr. Soleyn, “This appointment reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s unwavering commitment to climate leadership. As a small island developing state, we sit on the frontlines of climate impacts, and we therefore have a unique responsibility to champion innovative, science-driven, and people-centered climate solutions within tourism. I am honoured to serve in this capacity and look forward to advancing meaningful action alongside our international partners.”
Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, The Hon. Charles Fernandez, also welcomed the appointment, noting that it aligns perfectly with the country’s long-standing vision for sustainability.
Minister Fernandez stated, “Antigua and Barbuda has consistently advocated for a more resilient, responsible, and environmentally conscious tourism sector. Our election as Vice-Chair reinforces our role as a regional leader in sustainable tourism development. We will continue to push for policies and partnerships that protect our environment, safeguard our communities, and secure a thriving tourism industry for generations to come.”
Climate change remains one of the most pressing threats to sustainable development, with tourism both highly vulnerable to climate disruptions and a contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. In the wake of the Azerbaijan COP29 Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism and recognizing the urgency for coordinated global efforts, Brazil proposed the formation of this Interinstitutional Working Group.
The Working Group will strengthen partnerships, align strategic approaches, and accelerate the implementation of climate-resilient and low-carbon tourism policies across member states.
Its mandate includes proposing, recommending, coordinating, and supporting the development of concrete, scalable climate strategies in accordance with the approved Programme of Work and Budget of the Organization. It will also serve as a governance mechanism for the Global Partnership for Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism, reinforce the implementation of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, and coordinate closely with the Committee on Tourism and Sustainability.
Additionally, the Working Group will support the implementation of the One Planet Sustainable Tourism Programme, ensuring stronger synergies and collaboration throughout the tourism value chain.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
