2/5⏰
September 27 – World Tourism Day reminds us that travel is more than recreation; it is an opportunity to foster cultural exchange, support sustainable development, and uphold human dignity. At a time when our planet faces climate change, resource depletion, and the risks of over-tourism, it is essential that tourism becomes not a burden on the Earth but a shared blessing for humanity.
Tourism and Human Rights
Tourism, when approached responsibly, is a vehicle for advancing human rights. Every individual has the right to dignity, cultural identity, and access to shared resources. Yet unplanned and careless travel often harms local communities, threatens cultural heritage, and increases environmental injustice. Women, youth, and marginalized groups are often the most vulnerable when local economies are destabilized by unsustainable tourism practices.
Environmental Justice and Responsible Travel
From the perspective of environmental justice, the principle is clear: travel must not exploit nature but protect it. Pollution, over-consumption, and disregard for biodiversity contradict the values of sustainability and fairness between generations. Responsible tourism means journeys that safeguard natural resources, respect local communities, and ensure that God’s blessings — the forests, rivers, mountains, and cultural treasures — remain for the generations to come.
Faith, Pilgrimage, and Ethical Journeys
In Islamic tradition, travel is deeply tied to reflection, learning, and spiritual growth. Pilgrimage, particularly ziyārah, connects millions of believers to sacred sites while strengthening bonds of solidarity, justice, and shared responsibility. Pilgrims are called not only to devotion but also to ethical conduct: respecting the rights of residents, supporting local economies, and protecting the environment.
The Qur’an reminds us: “Say: Travel through the land and observe how He began creation.” (29:20)This verse invites believers to see travel as an act of reflection and respect for creation — a call that resonates today with global efforts to protect our planet.
A Call to Justice and Solidarity
On this World Tourism Day, the Roya Institute emphasizes that ethical tourism is inseparable from human rights and environmental justice. Journeys should unite cultures, empower local communities, and safeguard the Earth we all share. Religious tourism, cultural tourism, and recreational tourism alike must contribute to peace, dignity, and sustainability.
By turning every journey into a conscious act of responsibility and respect, we move closer to a world where travel is not only about reaching destinations but also about advancing justice, protecting the environment, and strengthening our shared humanity.
Image Description: Tourism is an easy-access sector for micro and small enterprises and for the self-employed, who make up a significant part of the tourism sector and community-level entrepreneurship in general. Composition de l’ONU/Adobe Stock image.