Background document on Tourism Northern perspective

This background paper examines the environmental, social, and economic implications of tourism from a Northern civil society perspective, aiming to inform discussions for the Global Civil Society Forum. It outlines tourism’s rapid growth and significant economic contribution while emphasising its substantial environmental degradation, resource consumption, and social impacts. Drawing on non-governmental organisation experiences, it reviews international policy processes, critiques existing approaches to sustainable tourism, and highlights governance, economic instruments, and stakeholder roles. The document identifies gaps between policy proposals and implementation, stressing the need for integrated planning, regulatory frameworks, and coordinated global criteria to ensure sustainability.