• Establishment of a Research Centre for Sustainable Tourism at the University of Zagreb.
• Focus areas of the Research Centre include Tourism Governance, Sustainability, and Climate Action in Tourism.
• Launch of new Sustainable Tourism Awards for leading Croatian destinations.
• Croatia’s commitment to aligning national tourism efforts with global sustainability standards.

UN Tourism has forged significant partnerships with Croatia’s Ministry of Tourism and Sport and the University of Zagreb, propelling forward the cause of sustainable tourism, cutting-edge research, and exciting innovation. These collaborative agreements, solidified during the UN Tourism Secretary-General’s recent visit to Croatia, are setting the stage for remarkable advancements in the sector.

A cornerstone of this collaboration is the establishment of a dynamic Research Centre for Sustainable Tourism, strategically located at the University of Zagreb. This center is envisioned as a vibrant knowledge hub, dedicated to providing applied research and crucial policy support to UN Tourism Member States. Its mission is to deliver impactful results across six key areas, including robust tourism governance, comprehensive sustainability and inclusivity, vital knowledge exchange, collaborative multi-stakeholder partnerships, proactive climate action in tourism, and progressive tourism law.

This hub will be instrumental in shaping data-driven policies, championing low-carbon solutions, and encouraging the adoption of renewable energy and circular business models within the tourism industry. It will also serve as a vital link between policymakers, industry leaders, and academic institutions, fostering well-informed and inclusive decision-making processes. The center’s alignment with the UN Statistical Framework will ensure meticulous monitoring and assessment of tourism’s environmental, social, and economic footprints, guiding both public and private sector actions towards sustainable development goals.

Adding to this positive momentum, new Sustainable Tourism Awards will be launched, shining a spotlight on Croatian destinations that excel in enhancing community well-being, bolstering economic resilience, and safeguarding cultural heritage. These awards underscore Croatia’s unwavering dedication to a thoughtful, inclusive, and long-term approach to tourism. Croatia’s recent legislative reforms and initiatives have already laid a strong foundation for a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector. These new agreements with UN Tourism represent a commendable leap forward, harmonizing national endeavors with global sustainability standards and positioning Croatia as a beacon of sustainable tourism innovation.