International Organization for Standadization (ISO) published the first global standard about accessible tourism, ISO 21902 Tourism and related services—Accessible tourism for all—Requirements and Recommendations. This is an international standard that provides standards to ensure tourism accessibility for all individuals.
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Fundación ONCE, and UNE (Asociación Espaola de Normalización) spearheaded the international development of this pioneering, cross-cutting standard that focuses on accessible tourism throughout the whole tourism value chain. In 2021 and 2022, UNWTO, Fundación ONCE, and UNE, in collaboration with experts, conducted an awareness campaign aimed at their members and affiliates to emphasize the harmonization of accessible tourism on a global scale via standards.
ISO Standard 21902 promotes human rights equality and a holistic approach to the development of the tourism industry. At the same time, ISO Standard 21902 encourages both the public and private sectors to participate more actively in the formulation of tourism accessibility-based policies and business strategies. All recommendations are formulated in collaboration with organisations for individuals with disabilities, civic society, and important tourism industry stakeholders.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 15% of the global population (1 billion people) live with a disability. Any responsible and sustainable tourism policy should prioritize the accessibility of tourist facilities, goods, and services for all individuals. Accessibility extends beyond human rights. It is a chance for destinations and businesses to boost their revenue by welcoming all tourists. Due to the arrangement of the environment, infrastructure, and vast array of tourism services, visitors with disabilities frequently encounter obstacles, beginning with the preparation of the trip and the incorporation of the destination experience.
By implementing ISO Standard 21902, we trigger the change! Download the PDF below, which provides some suggestions for building an accessible tourism environment:
ISO Standard 21902 Accessible Tourism for all(Click on the document title)
Source of information: https://www.unwto.org/accessibility
