Destinations International (DI), the association representing destination organisations and convention and visitors bureaux (CVBs), and City Destinations Alliance (CityDNA), the alliance of tourist boards, convention bureaux and destination management organisations in Europe, have issued the ‘Global Accessibility Report’, a collaborative research effort offering a foundational understanding of the global initiatives around accessibility. The report was released at the recent GDS-Forum & City DNA Autumn Conference 202 in Bruges.
With a global disabled population of 16% (1.85 billion people), investing in accessibility, they say, is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for destinations and a source of economic impact. UN Tourism defines accessibility to facilities, products and services as a core component of any responsible and sustainable tourism policy. Through accessible tourism, destinations can empower people with disabilities to travel independently and confidently.
The Global Accessibility Report shares insights from a survey fielded in early 2024 of 92 destinations. 65% of respondents represent DMOs; 63% were in Europe and 25% in North America.
The report has three primary objectives: to understand the challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive environments that benefit everyone; to assess the state of destination accessibility; to identify gaps and highlight innovative practices that foster more welcoming and inclusive spaces; and to inspire and motivate organisations to improve accessibility for residents and visitors of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
“Accessibility matters not only to visitors but also to local communities, and destination organisations are starting to recognise the significance of providing inclusive facilities, products, and services for everyone,” said Sophia Hyder Hock, DI chief inclusion officer. “It’s not just a key factor for a thriving destination – it’s the ethical choice. We hope this report will help the tourism industry advance this critical effort.”
“City Destinations Alliance is proud to collaborate on this important research, providing our members with insights and tools to lead the way in building destinations where everyone feels welcome and empowered to explore,” added Barbara Jamison-Woods, president of CityDNA.
The Global Accessibility Report is available on both the Destinations International website and CityDNA website. Report cover photo credit: Visit Mechelen
