UN Tourism, Slow Food Partner to for the Benefit of Communities
In celebration of Sustainable Gastronomy Day, UN Tourism and Slow Food have announced a new strategic partnership aimed at strengthening the connection between tourism and agriculture, with a focus on benefiting local communities and destinations. Through a Memorandum of Understanding, both organizations commit to advancing gastronomy tourism as a tool for socio-economic development, particularly in rural areas.
The collaboration will prioritize the development of value-added, inclusive, and innovative tourism experiences that highlight local food products, support sustainable food systems, and celebrate culinary heritage. By enhancing the gastronomy tourism value chain, the initiative aims to deepen ties between food producers, tourism service providers, communities, and travelers.
Key areas of cooperation include research on gastronomy tourism trends, the sharing of case studies and best practices, training and skills development, and the creation of networks that foster stronger relationships between food systems and tourism stakeholders.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the potential of this partnership:
“UN Tourism recognizes the vital role responsible, inclusive tourism can play in supporting communities everywhere. The work of Slow Food is fully aligned with our values, and we trust this partnership will help advance sustainable gastronomy tourism that leaves no one behind.”
Slow Food Director General Paolo Di Croce echoed the sentiment, highlighting the transformative power of tourism:
“Tourism can be a powerful force for strengthening sustainable local food systems. Our Slow Food Travel program creates immersive culinary experiences that support rural communities and celebrate biodiversity, offering travelers a chance to connect with farmers and producers around the world.”
This partnership represents a significant step toward bridging the tourism and food sectors, with the shared goal of fostering regional development, empowering local populations, and promoting healthy, sustainable consumption. By joining forces, UN Tourism and Slow Food aim to protect culinary traditions while creating new opportunities for economic inclusion and rural revitalization.
