On the “sad” occasion of the one-year anniversary today (Feb. 24) of Russia’s unconscionable invasion of its neighbour, the world’s tourism industry remains firmly in support of Ukraine, says the secretary-general of the United Nations Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

“The invasion has exacted a terrible price,” Zurab Pololikashvili said of an event he calls a “clear breach of the Charter of the United Nations and of international law.”

“Millions have been forced to flee their homes – right now around 6 million people, 65% of them women and girls, are internally displaced. And the number of casualties keeps growing by the day, including civilian victims as homes and even hospitals are deliberately targeted,” he said.

“The invasion has also created a humanitarian and human rights catastrophe not seen in Europe since World War II. And it has undermined the sense of security and trust we depend on to get the world moving again after the impacts of the pandemic.”

Pololikashvili notes that from the start of the war, the UNWTO has led tourism’s response to the crisis, swiftly suspending Russia from the organization and at the same time rallying stakeholders from across the sector in support of the Ukrainian people.

And “with no end in sight for the war, our solidarity must hold firm,” he urged. “With each passing day, the united front that much of the global community has adopted since the invasion is also under attack, especially as countries everywhere continue to feel the economic fallout of the conflict and its social cost. That’s why UNWTO will continue to amplify tourism’s calls for peace and urge an immediate end to all hostilities.

“We will also be there when the war ends, as it surely will. Then, tourism’s unique power, proven time and again, to build trust back, promote dialogue and understanding across borders, and provide opportunities, will be vital to help the people of Ukraine re-build the country they have already given so much to protect.”