Mon Dec 02 14:55:53 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Declaration Calls for Gender-Inclusive Tourism
**Munnar, Kerala –** A three-day global conference concluded in Munnar, Kerala, with the adoption of the “Kerala Declaration on Gender Inclusive and Women-Friendly Tourism.” The declaration, signed by government agencies and other stakeholders, emphasizes the need for a tourism sector that is equitable, sustainable, and environmentally conscious.
The conference, organized by the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission Society in partnership with UN Women, highlighted the urgent need to address gender inequality within the tourism industry. Key initiatives outlined in the declaration include:
* **Promoting gender-sensitive practices:** Ensuring fair representation and opportunities for women, gender minorities, and other under-represented groups in all aspects of tourism, including leadership roles.
* **Preventing harassment and exploitation:** Implementing robust policies to protect women and children from exploitation within the tourism sector.
* **Empowering women entrepreneurs:** Organizing capacity-building programs to support women in tourism-related businesses.
* **Promoting sustainable and climate-responsive tourism:** Recognizing the crucial role of women in environmental protection and encouraging ecotourism initiatives that benefit local communities.
The “Call to Action” accompanying the declaration urges collective efforts to achieve these goals. The conference was attended by high-ranking officials from the Kerala Tourism Department, representatives from UN Women, and leaders in the responsible tourism sector.
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