UEF 6 theme and SDGs

Connected to the sustainability principles defined by the UN World Tourism Organization, the UEF6 fundamental approach aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 17, focusing on making cities and communities sustainable through partnerships. UEF 6 also aligns with Goal 8 “Decent Work” and Economic Growth” particularly with the target that “Aims to devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products” (8.9). The 2030 Agenda also recognizes the critical role played by the tourism sector, which accounts for one-tenth of global GDP and employment. It is also referenced in three of the Global Goals: SDG 4 for ‘Life Below Water’ and SDG 12 for ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’. The sector also directly impacts efforts to achieve other Goals, such as eradicating poverty, advancing gender equality, and protecting the environment. UEF6 aims to consider the global capacity holistically, integrating natural resources, cultural heritage, urban identity, and more. As these resources are concentrated in cities, we can place Urban SDGs at the core of development, initiating a new paradigm for utilizing global capacities for urban transformation. UEF 6 will have presentations relating to Indigenous values and lifestyle – such as appreciation of the intrinsic connection between nature and culture - correspond with the SDG agenda, and this could be used to further advance this agenda in ways that benefit Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. UEF will look at how SDG 5 relates to tourism, and how tourism and gender equality interconnect with the other SDGs.

Furthermore, UEF6 approach involves addressing global challenges such as climate change, global warming, energy, population, and food security. By creating a global structure that encompasses all these aspects and pays attention to environmental and planetary concerns, we aim to bridge the gap between optimism and realism through innovative solutions founded on clear financial consideration.



Climate change and tourism’s interaction and vulnerability have been among the most discussed topics In this context, UEF6 will provide a forum to discuss on how CO2 emissions, the primary cause of global warming and climate change, respond to changes in tourism development and the role of sustainable tourism to contribute to carbon neutrality

UEF 6 call to participate

Tourism development can significantly enhance the quality of life in cities by fostering economic growth, creating job opportunities, and improving infrastructure. 

 UEF6 plans to engage global experts, scholars, academic institutions, city leaders, and financial institutions in a conversation to strengthen our collective understanding. 

Furthermore, this collaborative effort seeks to establish a global agenda for urban development and environmental sustainability focusing on the intersection of global and local perspectives in tourism. UEF 6 will also address the barriers to implementing successful sustainable tourism policies and practices at the city, national, and global levels.

The 6th annual forum, scheduled for September 2024 in Canada, anticipates a diverse gathering of stakeholders, promising an innovative interaction model for shaping peaceful global collaboration and partnerships. 

UEF6 is mainly focused on the following themes and topics, the presenters can contribute in the fields of theoretical, experimental, and applied research. 

The first main theme aims to find synergies and relevant solutions for connecting tourism to sustainable economic development unpacking the urban resources through tourism sectors and transforming it into national, regional, and locally demanded social, economic, and environmental value for city residents, not leaving anyone behind.