What is an essential function of the UNWTO?

The essential function of the UNWTO, which stands for the United Nations World Tourism Organization, is to serve as a global forum for tourism policies. This organization plays a crucial role in promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. By providing a platform for dialogue between governments, the private sector, and other stakeholders, the UNWTO facilitates the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and information regarding tourism trends and policies.

The reason this is a key function is that effective tourism policies can greatly influence the economic, social, and environmental impacts of tourism worldwide. This global forum helps countries collaborate and develop strategies that are beneficial for tourism development, ensuring that the industry grows in a way that is sustainable and inclusive.

In contrast, other options, such as regulating tourism laws in every country, unifying international travel agencies, or creating travel itineraries for tourists, do not accurately reflect the UNWTO's role. The UNWTO does not have the authority to enforce laws in individual countries or directly manage travel agencies; rather, it focuses on guidance, policy development, and research to support member states in their tourism efforts.