The first provision of the code of ethics is that tourists and the cultures they visit engage on terms of mutual respect and understanding. Tourists should respect the values and traditions of the host regions, and, in turn, tourism officials in host areas should become familiar with the tastes, practices and expectations of visitors.
Tourism is a means of both individual and group fulfillment. While tourism is a leisure activity, the pursuit of satisfaction must not come at the expense of other people's dignity or rights, or involve the social or economic exploitation of vulnerable groups.
Tourist activities should not endanger the natural resources of the visited area, and insofar as possible, tourist programs and related funding should protect ecosystems and biodiversity.
While cultural differences are a great draw for tourists, tourism should be conducted in a way that protects and preserves the artistic and social traditions of the host region. Tourist activities should help to maintain local and authentic artisan activities and not allow productive traditions to degenerate or become commodities for purchase.
Local populations should participate in tourism and equitably receive the associated social and economic benefits. Tourism policies should work to help raise the local standard of living and address local needs.
Tourism professionals are responsible for providing honest information to tourists and, insofar as possible, work to ensure the health, safety and fulfillment of their clients.
The enjoyment of the world's natural and cultural pleasures is everyone's right, and obstacles should not be placed in the way of discovery. For children, the elderly and handicapped populations, tourism should be encouraged and made accessible.
When visiting another state or country, tourists should be granted the same liberty of movement as citizens of the host regions. Tourists should be allowed to convert their currency into local denominations, and border crossings should be facilitated.
Individuals working in tourism should be protected by the laws of their country and encouraged to develop professionally. International tourist corporations should not exploit their position of economic dominance but should rather work toward local development to benefit the communities in which they operate.
Individual tourist entrepreneurs, international corporations and tourists should recognize the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. Additionally, these stakeholders should respect the important positions occupied by international organizations that promote environmental health, human rights and international law.
