As one of the aspects in which tourism plays an important role, the promotion of cultural values, diversity and heritage will be the main theme of this year’s International Conference on Cultural Tourism in Europe. Taking place in Sibiu, Romania on 20th and 21st September, the 10th edition of this annual event will be dedicated to discussing trends and best practices in sustainable tourism development in Europe.

Themed "Cultural Values, Diversity and Heritage: Pillars of Sustainable Tourism for Development," the conference will be aligned with the celebration of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, a United Nations initiative aiming to promote tourism as an enabler of social and economic growth. Designated at the 70th session of UN General Assembly, the year 2017 will highlight the role of tourism in enhancing awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage, as well as in fighting poverty, environmental protection and the overall improvement of quality of life.

Through a number of thematic events across the world, the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for development will uncover the richness of opportunities for cultural tourism and help overcome some major challenges in its development. In addition to recognising tourism’s role in enabling sustainable social and economic growth, the initiative will also promote the values of culture and heritage.

At the 10th International Conference on Cultural Tourism, this particular aspect will be brought into spotlight to help address major challenges, risks and opportunities for the development of sustainable tourism in Europe. The conference will offer insights on how this can contribute to promoting European cultural values, heritage and diversity, while suggesting some practical steps for its development.

The conference is organised by European Cultural Tourism Network in the framework of International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017, European Heritage Days 2017, Interreg Europe project CHRISTA, European Cooperation Day and European Tourism Manifesto for Growth. The Call for Papers is open until May 31st and further instructions are available for download here.