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WELCOME TO THE INTERNATIONAL CENTRES FOR RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

The International Centre for Responsible Tourism global is the central hub of an independent network of International Centres for Responsible Tourism (ICRT). ICRTs are located throughout the world including West and South Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, South America, Europe and Southeast Asia.

Each ICRT tackles the most important issues in their region. There is no blueprint, no internationally valid prescription for how tourism should be made more sustainable. The salience and importance of issues vary from place to place, affected by the cultural and natural environment, and solutions vary too.

However each ICRT shares a common purpose in developing and promoting the concept of Responsible Tourism through advocacy, education, training and research. Each ICRT shares a common commitment to the 2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism in Destinations and work severally and together to further its objectives

  • Campaigning to promote the practice of Responsible Tourism whether by promoting the ideas or demonstration projects
  • One of the core objectives of the international network of ICRTs is to encourage and facilitate South-South exchange and to enable Responsible Tourism academics and practitioners to further the development of Responsible Tourism through the exchange of experience, knowledge and skills
  • Advocacy: to run conferences and workshops and disseminate information through print and other media about the principles and practice of Responsible Tourism
  • Research: to undertake research on the practice of Responsible Tourism to create knowledge about the impacts of Responsible Tourism strategies and to determine which approaches are most successful in achieving the objectives of Responsible Tourism
  • Training: to provide training on Responsible Tourism and undergraduate, postgraduate and professional levels both independently and in association with the ICRT

The network of International Responsible Tourism Centres includes:

INTERESTED IN JOINING THE MOVEMENT?

Each ICRT operates independently, but we are always eager to connect with dedicated advocates of Responsible Travel. Our network addresses region-specific challenges, recognizing that there is no universal approach to sustainable tourism. Issues and solutions vary based on local cultural and environmental contexts. 

What Does an ICRT Commit To? 

ICRTs are united by a common goal: advancing Responsible Tourism through advocacy, education, training, and research. We adhere to the principles set forth in the 2022 Responsible Tourism Charter and the 2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism in Destinations. Our members work both independently and collaboratively to meet their objectives. 

Benefits of Joining the Movement 

By joining, each regional ICRT: 

  • Becomes part of a global network dedicated to sharing best practices and promoting Responsible Tourism 
  • Is featured on the ICRT global website 
  • Receives visibility in ICRT global news materials 
  • Gains access to strategic planning resources, including consultation with Dr. Harold Goodwin 
  • Has the opportunity to participate in the Responsible Tourism awards 

Who Can Establish a New ICRT? 

Only ICRT global can create or endorse new ICRT entities. The network operates independently and is not a franchise or membership organization. Regional ICRTs cannot create sub-branches or franchises without ICRT global’s approval. All ICRTs have equal access to ICRT global resources. 

Who Is Eligible to Form a New ICRT? 

ICRTs have various legal structures and programs tailored to each country’s context, reflecting our commitment to diversity in Responsible Tourism. While different national programs may vary, none of the ICRTs will operate as consultancies or for-profit enterprises. Open to individuals from industry, academia, and NGOs who support the Cape Town Declaration, ICRTs must engage in activities that sustain their organizations. 

How Does the  Network of Independent Organizations Function?

Each ICRT is responsible for its own funding and operations. If joint funding is secured, separate agreements will outline the management of such initiatives. Regional ICRTs are legally and administratively distinct, and ICRT global does not oversee their individual activities or statements. All ICRTs share a commitment to advancing Responsible Tourism and maintaining the integrity and reputation of the network. 

Each ICRT provides an annual brief statement regarding its legal form, officers (with contact details), current activities, and priorities, which will be published on this website. ICRT global enforces network standards to protect its reputation, retaining the right to de-list any ICRT that fails to uphold the network's values or brings it into disrepute. 

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