WTTC unveils equality initiative for women in travel & tourism

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched a new initiative to support women in the travel and tourism industries. The Cancun Declaration has been adopted by more than 100 countries, industry associations and destinations. It takes its name from the location of WTTC’s 2021 Global Summit, currently taking place in Mexico. Its aim is to promote diversity and drive inclusivity. Signatories committed themselves to providing equal opportunities for women by removing barriers, ensuring fair treatment, and encouraging greater financial, professional, and social independence. The initiative is supported by women’s tennis champion Martina Navratilova, who spoke live during WTTC. She commented: “Women have always had to outperform men, and whilst things are changing for the better, it is still a fight and a constant battle. “Change happens much quicker when it comes from the top. Companies would be more profitable if more women were in positions of power and boardrooms were less homogenous, reflecting the diversity of their customers.” The initiative was unveiled by Gloria Guevara, WTTC president & CEO, who said: “As the first female president and CEO of WTTC, it is an honour to champion this important initiative. “Globally, women have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic which has exacerbated the pay gap, the opportunity gap and the shocking lack of senior positions and leadership roles across the travel & tourism sector. “This needs to be changed. WTTC research shows women play a vital role and represented 54% of Travel & Tourism’s employment worldwide. Yet while more than half the sector is accounted for by women, all too few occupy any senior or strategic roles.”