By obtaining the status of UN Tourism Affiliate Member, IGCAT has recently joined a network of 500 members spanning from companies to educational and research institutions, destinations and NGOs from all over the globe, committed to promote sustainable tourism development.
IGCAT was officially welcomed as an Affiliate Member during the 121st Session of UN Tourism Executive Council, held in Barcelona on 10-11 June 2024, together with 38 other entities, including: 3 Destination Management Organization (DMOs), 14 for-profit companies, 10 associations and NGOs, 7 education and research institutes, and 5 others (source: UN Tourism).
IGCAT Vice-President, Dr. Edith M. Szivas and IGCAT International Projects Manager, Fabrizia Toccoli were honoured to collect the Affiliate Member certificate from UN Tourism Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili and Director of UN Tourism Affiliate Members and Public-Private Collaboration Department, Ion Vilcu.
“The integration of these new leading entities reflects our ongoing efforts to strengthen the Affiliate Membership and create a diverse and inclusive network capable of significantly contributing to the UN Tourism mission. We remain committed to enhancing Affiliate Members’ satisfaction and fostering a sense of belonging through effective, mutually beneficial, win-win engagement in the Organization’s key activities and projects,” said Vilcu (source: UN Tourism).
On 10 June, IGCAT participated in the first ever Affiliate Members Global Networking Event hosted by CETT-UB – Barcelona School of Tourism, Hospitality and Gastronomy. The representatives of the Affiliate Members were welcomed by CEO of CETT-UB, Ms. Maria Abellanet, Chair of the Affiliate Members Board, Ms. Mar de Miguel, and Director of UN Tourism Affiliate Members, Mr. Ion Vilcu.
The event was aimed to exchange ideas and knowledge among Affiliate Members worldwide; get to know more about the network’s activities and projects; as well as untap new collaboration opportunities.
After hearing about the main applied research projects of CETT-UB in sustainable tourism and the pioneer project of the University Hotel Alimara, Affiliate Members were invited to a networking cocktail prepared by CETT students with a thematic menu inspired by the dishes of the most iconic movies.
For the full list of new Affiliate Members see: UN Tourism Welcomes 39 New Affiliate Members
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.
About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.
